Everything You Should Know Before Getting a Vertical Clit Hood Piercing

As the term suggests, a vertical clit hood piercing (VCH) is a piercing that runs vertically through the clitoral hood.

The hood is the thin flap of skin that covers the glans clitoris — the small pleasure nub located at the top of your vulva, between the labia.

Are there sexual advantages?

Yes!

The promise of enhanced sexual sensation is the main reason many people opt for a VCH.

People with this style of clitoral piercing report numerous pleasurable effects, and there’s research supporting those claims.

For you

Like adorning any other body part with jewelry, decorating your clitoral area can lift your self-image — in particular your sexual and genital self-perception.

A 2019 study found that satisfaction with the appearance of one’s genitals was linked to greater sexual pleasure, improved sexual function, and a more positive overall body image. So that’s one benefit.

Beyond aesthetics, a piercing positioned between the hood and glans can increase clitoral stimulation through direct contact.

Because many people with vulvas require clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm, this effect can be highly beneficial.

Most VCH wearers agree that the piercing enhances pleasure across a range of sexual activities — from solo or mutual masturbation and dry humping to oral sex and penetrative intercourse.

Those with VCHs often report that previously “meh” sexual positions can become intensely pleasurable.

Many also note they experience arousal from nonsexual movements such as dancing or crossing their legs.

For your partner

Let’s be real: sexual confidence is extremely attractive. Being with someone who’s enjoying themselves and exuding confidence is a major turn-on, and that energy tends to be contagious.

There’s also the look of the piercing, which for some partners is highly arousing.

Physical benefits for a partner depend on the sexual position and the partner’s anatomy. For example, scissoring or other vulva-to-vulva contact can increase clitoral stimulation for both people involved.

Who is a candidate?

Most people with vulvas are anatomically capable of getting a VCH.

You need a hood deep enough to accommodate the jewelry and not excessive pressure from the pubic mound, which can occur with excess fat or sagging in that area.

Your piercer will perform a suitability check to ensure a VCH is appropriate, but you can do a simple self-test beforehand by sliding a lubricated cotton swab under your hood. If most of the cotton end fits beneath the hood, congratulations — you’ve passed the cotton swab test and have sufficient depth.

If only part of the cotton tip fits under the hood, a VCH may not be suitable for you.

Again, a professional piercer can assess and confirm whether you’re a good candidate.

Finally, if your clitoris is extremely sensitive, you might want to think twice about a VCH. While added clitoral stimulation is pleasurable for many, it can be overwhelming for some.

What jewelry works best?

Curved barbells are the most frequently used jewelry for VCHs because they follow the natural curve of the clitoris and hood. This lets them sit comfortably, tucked away and less likely to cause irritation during daily activities.

Straight barbells and captive-bead rings are alternative choices.

What material should I pick?

There are many materials available, but you should choose jewelry made from types recommended by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP).

The APP suggests solid 14-karat gold or higher, as well as implant-grade metals certified by ASTM International or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

• Stainless steel. A common pick because it’s affordable and safe for most people, including many with nickel sensitivities. It’s not entirely nickel-free but has a low nickel release rate that’s usually tolerable unless your allergy is severe. Look for pieces meeting ASTM-F138 or ISO-5832-1 standards.
• Titanium. More costly than stainless steel, titanium is hypoallergenic and nickel-free. Seek jewelry compliant with ASTM-F136 or ISO 5832-3.
• Solid 14-karat gold or higher. Gold offers a few advantages: it’s well tolerated by most people and comes in yellow, white, or rose varieties. Avoid gold-plated pieces because the plating can flake off and expose underlying alloys like nickel.

What’s the typical cost?

VCHs and other genital piercings usually range from $50 to $100 for the piercing service itself. Prices can increase significantly depending on the studio and your location.

Other expenses to factor in include:

• Jewelry. Often not included and can run from about $20 to $60 depending on material.
• Evaluation. A reputable piercer will assess suitability before performing a genital piercing; some studios apply the consultation fee toward the piercing cost.
• Tip. If you’re satisfied, a 20 percent tip is customary.

How is the procedure performed?

Here’s what typically happens during a VCH appointment:

• Paperwork and evaluation. You’ll show ID and fill out forms, including a waiver. If not already done, the piercer will evaluate your anatomy to confirm you’re a suitable candidate for the piercing and chosen jewelry.
• Disinfecting. The area will be cleaned with a surgical scrub.
• Marking. The piercer will mark the planned piercing site and get your approval.
• Piercing. A needle-receiving tube is placed under the hood, the tissue is lifted, and the needle is pushed through the marked spot. Jewelry is inserted immediately afterward.
• Cleanup. The piercer will manage any bleeding and clean the area. Expect some bleeding, but typically nothing severe. Wearing a panty-liner can help protect underwear.

Does it hurt?

Yes — you’re having a genital piercing — but pain varies from person to person.

Because the tissue is thin, a VCH is among the least painful genital piercings, and the sharp pain usually only lasts a second.

Being well-rested and relaxed can help reduce discomfort.

What risks should I know about?

The likelihood of infection or injury with a VCH is low but still present, along with the general risks tied to any piercing.

These can include:

• Allergic reaction. You could react to nickel or other metal alloys. That’s why implant-grade metals or 14-karat gold and above are recommended.
• Infection. A new piercing is an open wound and can become infected if not cared for. Bloodborne infections like tetanus, HIV, and hepatitis B or C are possible if unsterile needles are used. Sterile equipment, a respected piercer, and proper aftercare help prevent infection.
• Tearing. The piercing can tear if it gets snagged (don’t underestimate a rogue bit of toilet paper!) or if you or a partner are too rough.
• Embedding. Skin may grow over jewelry that is too short.
• Rejection. The body may attempt to push the jewelry out, causing the piercing to move toward the skin’s surface and potentially thin or open.
• Poor placement. A botched piercing can occur, which is why selecting an experienced, reputable piercer is crucial. Misplacement could result in the wrong area being pierced, such as the glans instead of the hood.

How long does healing take?

Healing varies because no two hoods are identical, but VCHs usually fully heal within 4 to 8 weeks.

Healing time depends on tissue amount, the shape of your clitoris and hood, and how meticulous you are with aftercare.

What aftercare is needed?

Common sense goes a long way in caring for your piercing. For example, avoid riding bikes, horses, or anything (or anyone) that could irritate the area immediately after getting a VCH.

That said, you can resume activities — including sex — once you feel comfortable. Let your clit guide you.

Here are aftercare do’s and don’ts to follow while healing.

While healing, do the following:

• Handle the piercing with care.
• Wash hands with soap and warm water before touching the site.
• Spray or soak the piercing with saline solution, including after sex.
• Shower daily.
• Gently pat dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
• Use barrier protection with a partner or sex toy.
• If using lubricant, choose water-based options.
• Change out of sweaty or damp clothes promptly.
• Keep your jewelry in at all times.

While healing, avoid the following:

• Don’t fidget with the piercing or let others handle it.
• Don’t let a partner’s mouth or bodily fluids contact the piercing.
• Don’t have sex without barrier protection.
• Don’t touch the piercing with unwashed hands — yours or anyone else’s.
• Don’t use harsh soaps or feminine hygiene products on the area.
• Don’t go into pools, hot tubs, lakes, or other bodies of water until fully healed.
• Don’t wear clothing that rubs or irritates the piercing.
• Don’t remove your jewelry during healing.

Warning signs

Although complications are uncommon with a VCH, it’s important to recognize signs of trouble.

Watch for:

• increasing pain, swelling, or redness around the piercing
• bleeding that won’t stop
• skin that feels hot to the touch
• foul-smelling discharge or pus
• flu-like symptoms such as fever and body aches

Do not remove your jewelry if you suspect a problem; removing it can cause the hole to close and trap an infection. Instead, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional immediately.

Changing your jewelry

Once fully healed, have your piercer change your jewelry. While you may eventually be able to do it yourself, it’s best to learn the correct technique from a professional the first time.

Closing the piercing

Clitoral hood piercings often shrink and close quickly.

If you decide you no longer want the piercing, remove the jewelry (or have your piercer remove it) only after the site has fully healed.

Next steps

If you’re ready for a piercing, choose a reputable piercer experienced in genital piercings.

You can locate professionals via the APP directory.

After narrowing your options, schedule a consultation so you can visit the studio, evaluate cleanliness, and ask questions.

Be sure to:

• check cleanliness and ask about sterilization procedures
• talk through any concerns you have
• get a suitability evaluation for a VCH