How to Use Kegel (Ben Wa) Balls Like a Pro

Kegel balls, often called Ben Wa balls, have been employed for generations to strengthen the pelvic floor by repeatedly contracting and releasing specific muscles.

Kegel balls do more than tone your pelvic floor. They’re widely recognized for boosting sexual pleasure — so much so that they go by names like orgasm balls, Venus balls, jiggle balls, geisha balls, love balls, and pleasure balls.

With mentions on shows like “Broad City” and in franchises such as “Fifty Shades,” Kegel balls have seen a rise in popularity as more people explore their many intimate and beneficial uses.

How to prepare Kegel balls

To prepare your Kegel balls for use:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
2. Clean your Kegel balls with warm water and antibacterial soap, then dry them using a clean towel.
3. Apply a generous amount of water-based lubricant to the balls to make insertion easier.

How to insert Kegel balls

Make sure to apply plenty of lube to your vaginal opening before you get into position. This helps reduce any discomfort while guiding the Kegel balls in.

After applying lubricant:

1. Lie down comfortably (spread eagle often works well).
2. Slowly and steadily insert the first ball.
3. Kegel balls are commonly linked by a short cord or plastic connector, so guide that inside your vagina as well.
4. With the connector tucked in, gently insert the second ball.
5. Push the balls in as far as is comfortable. If there’s a removal string or loop, it should remain outside your vagina, so ensure it isn’t accidentally tucked in with the rest of the balls.
6. Engage your pelvic floor muscles to hold the Kegel balls in place, then go about your day.

The balls should feel secure within your vaginal canal. If they seem like they might fall out or if the first ball is visible at the opening, gently push them a bit deeper.

Sensations vary between individuals, but most people describe a subtle, tingly feeling. Movement — like walking, bending, or reaching — often amplifies this sensation.

Pro tip

When you’re comfortable using connected Kegel balls, you might consider a set of individual balls (without a string).

Though insertion is similar, never push single balls farther back than you can easily retrieve.

How to use Kegel balls for pelvic exercise or sexual stimulation

What you do after inserting Kegel balls depends on your goal.

If your aim is to strengthen the pelvic floor, focused exercises will help you locate and build the right muscles.

If you’re experimenting for pleasure, you’ll concentrate less on structured exercise and more on personal exploration.

For pelvic exercise only

Once you’re familiar with classic Kegels or other pelvic floor moves, consider weighted Kegel balls. They can intensify your routine by adding resistance.

If you want to include Kegel balls in your workout:

1. Lie on your back and insert the balls. Be sure to use lube.
2. Tighten your pelvic floor to lift and squeeze the balls.
3. Hold the contraction for 5 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds.
4. Repeat this five times to complete one set.

You can perform up to three sets per day.

For solo sexual pleasure

Kegel balls aren’t usually used like conventional sex toys.

While you could move them in and out, many people find leaving them inside produces stronger sensations.

They enhance whatever stimulation you’re giving yourself, whether that’s clitoral rubbing or exploring other erogenous areas.

Here are two ways to use Kegel balls to amplify solo play:

• Lie in bed, insert your Kegel balls, then begin to squeeze your pelvic muscles. As arousal and natural lubrication increase, start exploring your body.
• Insert the balls and bring in your favorite vibrator. As you contract, rub the vibrator on your clitoris and around the vaginal opening.

For partner play

If you want to heighten sensitivity during vaginal sex, Kegel balls can make things more exciting for you and your partner.

You might insert them before going out on a date (à la Anastasia Steele) or make insertion the beginning of an intense session. The longer they’re in, the more turned-on you may become.

Be sure to remove the balls before your partner — or a toy — penetrates your vagina.

Kegel balls can also amplify sensations during anal sex, as penetration can press the balls against your G-spot and send intense feelings through your body.

However, never insert Kegel balls into your anus. They’re not designed for that use and could cause pain or become lodged. There are anal beads made specifically for anal play; these can be found at sex shops or online.

How to remove Kegel balls

You can typically keep Kegel balls in for up to six hours, depending on the type and your individual body chemistry. A healthcare provider can offer guidance tailored to you.

If your balls have a removal string or loop:

1. Lie down in a comfortable position.
2. Apply more lube to the vaginal opening.
3. Slowly pull the removal string until the balls slide out.

If the balls are separate:

1. Stand with feet slightly wider than hip-width.
2. Bend your knees into a comfortable squat.
3. Squeeze your vaginal muscles to push them out, similar to removing a tampon or other toy.

If they don’t come out right away, try to stay calm. Adding more lube may help. Coughing, moving, or gently jumping can encourage your muscles to contract and release, easing removal.

How to clean and store Kegel balls

Keeping Kegel balls clean is essential. Improper cleaning and storage can introduce bacteria into your vagina and cause infection.

After removing your Kegel balls:

1. Rinse them under warm water.
2. Clean thoroughly with antibacterial hand soap.
3. Rinse off any soapy residue under running water.
4. Pat them dry with a clean towel and consider air-drying for an hour or two to ensure they’re fully dry before storing.
5. Once dry, keep them in their own case.

Potential risks to consider before using Kegel balls

Like any exercise, Kegel balls carry some risks, including:

• overexertion
• tearing
• pain or discomfort

The best way to reduce risk is to choose the right size, weight, and technique.

Read product instructions and consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Talk to your provider before use if you:

• are pregnant or healing from childbirth
• have ongoing pelvic pain or an active pelvic infection
• are recovering from gynecological surgery
• have an intrauterine device

Avoid keeping Kegel balls in for longer than 4 to 6 hours. Beyond that, you risk overworking your pelvic floor muscles.

Only hold contractions for about five seconds with at least five seconds of rest between. Prolonged or continuous squeezing can strain your vaginal muscles.

Also, clean your Kegel balls before and after every use — unclean balls can cause infection.

Stop use and see a healthcare provider if you experience:

• severe pain or discomfort
• unusual discharge
• unusual odor

How to select the right Kegel balls for you

If you’re new to Kegel balls, begin with a lightweight plastic or silicone pair that are connected and include a removal string.

While some sets come with three or more balls, two is the typical standard. Start with two and adjust the number as you gain confidence.

When you’re ready to progress, try changing one variable at a time, such as swapping:

• larger balls for smaller ones
• lighter materials like plastic or silicone for heavier options like metal or glass
• connected sets for separate balls

Start by altering a single characteristic, like size, and then gradually introduce more changes as you advance.

Where to buy Kegel balls

To buy Kegel balls, consider visiting a local sex shop. Seeing products in person helps you assess size and weight, and staff can give recommendations and explain any extra items you might need, like lubricant.

If you can’t go to a brick-and-mortar store, shop online. Many retailers, such as Babeland, offer web stores that ship nationwide. Amazon also carries a range of Kegel balls, including popular options like Lelo Luna Beads.