Apadravya Piercing — The Vertical Glans Piercing
The apadravya is a vertical piercing through the glans of the penis. It enters at the top (dorsal) and exits the glans at the bottom (ventral), where it coincides with the exit point of a Prince Albert piercing. Through this vertical axis, it traverses the entire glans including the urethra — an aspect that may sound intimidating at first, but is medically safe and causes no functional impairments.
It is one of the oldest documented genital piercings. Its roots reach back to ancient India, where it is described in the Kama Sutra as a pleasure-enhancing modification. Among connoisseurs, the apadravya is considered the most functional of all male genital piercings, as the vertically placed barbell offers exceptional stimulation for both the wearer and their partner.
At XS Piercing Basel, we perform the apadravya with local anaesthesia — a unique feature that makes an otherwise intense procedure entirely manageable. This way, you can relax and enjoy the result instead of dreading the process.
History & Cultural Background
The apadravya is mentioned in the Kama Sutra, the classical Indian text on love and eroticism, composed between 400 BCE and 200 CE. There, it is described as one of several modifications intended to enhance sexual pleasure. The text describes a rod through the lingam (penis) in various configurations — the apadravya as the vertical variant is one of the most prominent forms.
In Southeast Asia, particularly on Borneo, the Dayak and other indigenous peoples practised similar piercings for centuries. Often referred to there as Palang or Ampallang, these piercings were deeply embedded in cultural initiation rituals and were considered rites of passage into adulthood. The tradition combined physical modification with spiritual meaning and social status.
The modern rediscovery of the apadravya in Western body modification culture occurred in the 1970s and 1980s, significantly driven by pioneers such as Jim Ward and the publication Piercing Fans International Quarterly (PFIQ). These publications helped bring genital piercings from the realm of taboo into the world of conscious body modification. Today, the apadravya is regarded as a sophisticated and respected piercing among experienced enthusiasts worldwide.
Anatomy & Placement
The apadravya creates a vertical channel through the entire glans of the penis. The entry point is located on the dorsal (upper) surface of the glans, and the exit point lies on the ventral (lower) side — exactly where a Prince Albert piercing would also exit. In between, the channel traverses the urethra.
The passage through the urethra sounds dramatic at first but causes no functional problems. The urethra is a flexible tissue that adapts to the jewellery without issue. There is neither scarring nor narrowing of the urethral canal. Urination is not impaired in the long term.
Optimal placement requires careful analysis of individual anatomy. The piercer takes into account:
- Size and shape of the glans — determines the barbell length and angle
- Position of the urethra — for a clean, centred traversal
- Location of the frenulum — to avoid conflicts with the frenulum
- Overall anatomy — ratio of glans to shaft, symmetry and proportions
No two anatomies are identical. That is why at XS Piercing, an individual consultation and assessment always takes place before the procedure. Only this way can a result be achieved that is both aesthetically and functionally optimal.
Passage through the urethra
The piercing traverses the urethra, which sounds more dramatic than it is. It causes no scarring or narrowing and does not permanently impair urination. The urethra is flexible tissue that fully adapts to the jewellery.
The Procedure at XS Piercing
Our process is designed to provide you with maximum safety and comfort. Every step is explained in advance, and you have the opportunity to ask questions or take a break at any time.
Detailed consultation and anatomical assessment
We discuss your expectations, explain the process and check whether your anatomy is suitable for the apadravya.
Marking the entry and exit points
Precise points on the upper and lower surface of the glans are marked with a sterile marking pen. You can check the placement in a mirror.
Disinfection of the area
The entire area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with an antiseptic solution.
Local anaesthesia — our unique feature
A small injection completely numbs the glans. Most studios do not offer this. With us, local anaesthesia is standard and included in the price.
Performing the piercing
The piercing is done with a sterile cannula in a single, clean pass from top to bottom.
Inserting the initial jewellery
A straight barbell made from implant-grade titanium is immediately inserted. The length accounts for the swelling allowance.
Check and aftercare instructions
We check the fit and placement, give you detailed care instructions and answer all remaining questions.
Jewellery Details
- Jewellery type
- Straight Barbell
- Gauge
- 14ga (1.6mm) or 12ga (2.0mm)
- Initial length
- 28-36mm (with swelling allowance)
- Material
- Implant-Grade Titanium (ASTM F136)
Timeframe
- Consultation
- 10-15 minutes
- Preparation
- 10-15 minutes
- Piercing itself
- A few seconds
- Total appointment
- approx. 30 minutes
Pain & Anaesthesia
Honestly: Without anaesthesia, the apadravya is one of the most intense piercings there is. The glans is one of the most sensitive body parts, and the piercing traverses it completely, including the urethra. In most studios, this piercing is performed without any pain relief — an experience that deters many interested individuals.
The difference at XS Piercing: We use local anaesthesia as standard. A small injection — comparable to the anaesthesia at the dentist — completely numbs the glans. The piercing itself is then painless. Our clients typically describe the experience as surprisingly straightforward.
After the procedure: Once the anaesthesia wears off (after about 30 to 60 minutes), moderate sensitivity and a dull pain sensation can be expected, lasting 1-3 days. Standard painkillers like ibuprofen are perfectly adequate. Most clients report that the pain is significantly less than expected.
«I was afraid of the procedure, but with the local anaesthesia I genuinely felt nothing. It was much easier than expected.»
— M.S., 34
Healing Process
Healing of the apadravya progresses in several phases. Every body is different, but the following timeline provides a reliable overview of the typical course.
Swelling and sensitivity are at their strongest during this phase. Light bleeding is normal and may last 1-2 days. The longer initial barbell provides sufficient room for swelling. Cooling with a clean cloth can help. Physical exertion should be minimised.
Swelling subsides noticeably. Crust formation at the entry and exit points is normal and a sign of healing. Do not pick off these crusts! Regular cleaning with saline solution remains important.
Significant improvement in overall comfort. The piercing channel begins to stabilise and the tissue becomes firmer. From week 8, careful intercourse is possible — exclusively with a condom! Listen to your body and stop if you experience discomfort.
Primary healing is complete. The channel is stable enough for a jewellery change to a shorter barbell — this change should be done at the studio. The piercing feels completely normal in daily life. Sensitivity with direct pressure may still occur.
Complete healing and maturation of the piercing channel. The tissue is now fully resilient. The channel is stable, flexible and resistant. Jewellery changes are possible without problems. The piercing can now reach its full potential.
Good to know: The apadravya tends to heal somewhat faster than the ampallang, as the vertical channel through the glans is shorter than the horizontal one. The shorter path means less tissue that needs to heal through.
Patience is key
Even if the piercing feels good after a few weeks, the channel needs months for complete stabilisation. Premature jewellery changes or too-early loading can set back healing. Trust the process.
Apadravya Piercing Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for complication-free healing. The apadravya requires special attention due to its location and passage through the urethra.
Daily Cleaning
Clean the piercing 2x daily with sterile saline solution (0.9% NaCl). Either as a spray or a soaked cotton pad. Let the solution sit for 1-2 minutes and then gently pat dry. No disinfectants, no alcohol, no Octenisept on the piercing — these disrupt natural healing.
Showering & Hygiene
Let warm water run over the piercing — that is sufficient in most cases. No soap directly on the piercing in the first week. From week 2, a mild, fragrance-free soap can be used carefully. After showering, dry thoroughly — moisture is the enemy of healing.
Hands & Touching
Never touch the piercing with unwashed hands. Even if it itches or pulls — avoid unnecessary touching, turning or playing with the jewellery. Every touch carries the risk of introducing bacteria. When cleaning the piercing, always wash your hands thoroughly first.
Underwear & Clothing
Wear supportive, clean cotton underwear. Snug underwear can hold the jewellery in place and prevent unwanted snagging. Avoid rough fabrics or tight trousers that rub against the piercing. Change underwear daily.
Sexual Activity
Sexual abstinence for at least 6-8 weeks. After that, careful intercourse exclusively with a condom is possible until the piercing is fully healed (4-6 months). Oral sex should also be avoided until the initial healing phase is complete.
Urinating During Healing
The urine stream may be slightly deflected or spray through the piercing channel in the first few weeks. This is completely normal. Sitting down to urinate can be more practical during this phase. The stream normalises completely as healing progresses.
Warning signs — Contact us if you experience:
Excessive swelling that does not subside; persistent pain after week 2; green or yellow discharge; fever; sinking or embedding jewellery. Do not remove the jewellery on your own if you suspect an infection — this can seal the drainage and worsen the situation. Contact us or a doctor.
Sexual Experience & Sensation
The apadravya is not without reason considered the most functional male genital piercing. The vertical alignment of the barbell through the glans offers unique stimulation properties that benefit both the wearer and their partner.
For the wearer
- + Increased sensitivity of the glans through the permanent gentle pressure of the barbell
- + Pleasant weight and presence of the jewellery, noticeable during movement
- + Additional stimulation during intercourse through the barbell moving along
- + Enhanced pleasure through the direct connection with the sensitive glans tissue
For the partner
- + The barbell provides additional stimulation through its presence and movement
- + Particularly effective G-spot stimulation through the vertical alignment
- + The barbell balls create a gentle pressure that many partners find intense
- + Compared to the horizontal ampallang, the vertical axis offers more targeted stimulation
The vertical orientation of the apadravya is often described as more effective than the horizontal orientation of the ampallang. This is because the barbell stimulates along the most sensitive axis of the vaginal canal during penetration — particularly the G-spot area.
Condoms can and should be used without problems after healing. A slightly larger condom size can increase comfort, as space is needed for the jewellery. Different barbell lengths and gauges can also subtly alter the experience.
Individual experience
Every experience is individual. Open communication with your partner is important, especially during the healing phase and when resuming sexual activity. Take your time, experiment carefully and find out what works best for both of you.
Risks & Complications
Like any piercing, the apadravya carries certain risks. With professional execution and careful care, serious complications are rare however. Transparency is important to us — that is why we inform you comprehensively.
Bleeding
The glans has a rich blood supply, which is why heavier bleeding than with surface piercings is normal. Bleeding typically stops within a few hours. Moderate bleeding over 1-2 days can occur and is not a cause for concern. Apply a clean compress and avoid blood-thinning medications (aspirin) in the days before the procedure.
Infection
The infection risk is low with correct aftercare. Signs of infection include persistent redness, warmth, unusual (greenish/yellowish) discharge and increasing pain after the first few days. Contact us immediately if you experience such symptoms. Early treatment prevents more serious problems.
Migration & Rejection
The migration risk with the apadravya is very low, as the piercing passes through substantial tissue. Unlike surface piercings that only traverse thin skin folds, the glans provides stable support for the barbell. Rejection reactions are extremely rare.
Granulation Tissue (Proud Flesh)
Granulation tissue may form at the entry and exit points — small, reddish bumps. This is not an infection but an excess tissue reaction. Treatment with regular saltwater compresses is sufficient in most cases. Tea tree oil should be avoided.
Urethral Problems
Complications with the urethra are extremely rare. The urethra is a flexible, adaptable organ that fully integrates the jewellery after healing. There is neither permanent narrowing nor functional impairments. Temporary spraying during urination in the first few weeks is normal and not a sign of complication.
For serious complications
Contact us immediately or see a doctor for: high fever, severe swelling that does not subside, inability to urinate, or signs of an allergic reaction. Do NOT remove the jewellery yourself if you suspect an infection — this can seal the drainage and promote an abscess.
Comparison with Other Glans Piercings
| Feature | Apadravya | Ampallang | Prince Albert | Dydoe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direction | Vertical | Horizontal | Diagonal / Lower ring | Horizontal (rim) |
| Healing time | 4-6 months | 6-10 months | 4-8 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
| Pain level (without anaesthesia) | High | Very high | Medium | Medium-High |
| Complexity | High | Very high | Medium | Medium |
| Stimulation | Very strong (vertical) | Strong (horizontal) | Moderate | Moderate (rim area) |
| Rarity | Rare | Very rare | Common | Rare |
| Migration risk | Very low | Very low | Very low | Moderate |
Apadravya vs. Ampallang
The ampallang is the horizontal counterpart to the vertical apadravya — same concept, different axis. The ampallang is considered somewhat more complex, as the horizontal channel through the glans is longer and accordingly heals more slowly (6-10 months versus 4-6 months). In terms of stimulation, the apadravya offers stronger vertical impact, while the ampallang stimulates horizontally. The choice depends on personal preference and the desired effect.
Apadravya vs. Prince Albert
The Prince Albert is the best-known and most widespread male genital piercing. It is technically simpler, heals faster (4-8 weeks) and is an excellent entry point into the world of genital piercings. A common path to the apadravya leads through the Prince Albert: First, the PA is pierced, and after complete healing, the upper half is added to extend the PA into an apadravya.
Apadravya vs. Dydoe
The dydoe sits on the rim (corona) of the glans and only traverses the outer rim area. It offers a different type of stimulation than the apadravya and has a higher migration risk, as less tissue holds the jewellery. Dydoe piercings are often pierced as pairs and can be excellently combined with an apadravya — an impressive combination for experienced piercing wearers.
Photo Gallery
Example photos of this piercing performed at XS Piercing Basel. The gallery contains explicit content.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Apadravya
Can I get an apadravya if I already have a Prince Albert?
Yes, this is actually one of the most common paths to an apadravya! The lower hole of the PA is used as the exit point — only the upper part needs to be pierced. Some clients find this a more comfortable approach, as only half the distance needs to be newly pierced.
What gauge is recommended?
We recommend 14ga (1.6mm) as the standard starting size. 12ga (2.0mm) is also possible and offers more stability. Later stretching is possible but should only be done after complete healing.
Can I still use condoms?
Yes, absolutely. Condoms can be used without any problems after the healing phase. You may want to choose a slightly larger size to accommodate the jewellery. During healing, condoms are mandatory for any intercourse.
How does urinating work during healing?
In the first few weeks, the urine stream may be slightly deflected or spray due to the piercing channel. This is normal and improves with healing. Many clients sit down during this phase. Everything normalises after complete healing.
Do I need to be circumcised?
No, circumcision is not required. The apadravya can be pierced on both circumcised and uncircumcised men. The technique is only slightly adjusted.
Can it be done in two steps (first PA, then extend)?
Yes, the so-called staged approach is a popular option. First, a Prince Albert is pierced (simpler, faster healing). After complete healing (3-6 months), the upper part is then added. This spreads the experience across two smaller procedures.
How long do I have to abstain from sex?
We recommend sexual abstinence for at least 6-8 weeks. After that, careful intercourse with a condom is possible. Listen to your body — if it hurts, wait longer.
Does the piercing affect fertility?
No, a correctly pierced apadravya has no impact whatsoever on fertility or sperm quality. The piercing channel heals as a separate tunnel and does not impair urethral function.
Gallery
Photo: Freshly pierced apadravya, side view
Photo: Healed apadravya with titanium barbell
Photo: Apadravya close-up, dorsal view
Photo: Apadravya extension from existing PA
Photo: Various barbell lengths compared
Photo: Apadravya + Dydoe combination
Own photos will be added with client consent.
Apadravya Piercing at XS Piercing Basel
The apadravya is a demanding piercing that requires experience, precision and the right environment. At XS Piercing Basel, we combine over 20 years of experience with local anaesthesia as standard, the highest hygiene standards and a respectful, professional atmosphere. We use exclusively implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136) and take the time that every procedure deserves.
Whether you already have experience with genital piercings or the apadravya would be your first — we advise you thoroughly, honestly and without obligation. Call us or book an appointment directly.