Frenum Piercing
The versatile classic — single or as an impressive frenum ladder
Healing
4-8 weeks
Price
CHF 100/120
Jewellery
Straight Barbell
Pain
Low (with anaesthesia)
The Frenum Piercing
The frenum piercing is a horizontal barbell through the frenulum on the underside of the penis, in the area between the glans and the penile shaft. It is among the most popular male intimate piercings and, after the Prince Albert, one of the most frequently chosen genital piercings.
The name derives from the frenulum praeputii, the thin band of tissue that connects the foreskin to the underside of the glans. The piercing is typically placed directly at this point or slightly further toward the shaft, depending on individual anatomy.
The frenum is a comparatively uncomplicated piercing with fast healing and low pain. It is therefore excellently suited as an introduction to the world of male intimate piercings — especially for men who have no experience with genital piercings and prefer a less invasive entry point.
The jewellery consists of a straight barbell made from implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136), running horizontally through the tissue. The length and gauge of the barbell are individually adapted to your anatomy. The balls at both ends of the barbell are visible on the underside of the penis and produce both a visual and functional effect.
Frenum Ladder (Jacob's Ladder)
The frenum ladder, internationally known as "Jacob's Ladder", is one of the most popular multi-piercing configurations in the genital area. Multiple frenum piercings are placed at even intervals along the underside of the penile shaft, creating a ladder-like arrangement.
A typical frenum ladder comprises 3 to 6 barbells, ranging from the area near the glans to the base of the penis or even to the scrotal junction. The exact number and spacing depend on individual anatomy — particularly shaft length and tissue thickness.
The frenum ladder is a long-term piercing project that is built up step by step:
- First piercing: Start with the frenum near the glans. This heals in 4-8 weeks.
- Extension: After complete healing, the next piercing is added further toward the shaft.
- Continuation: The process is repeated until the desired number is reached.
This step-by-step approach is important so that each individual piercing can heal optimally and the tissue has sufficient time for regeneration between sessions. A complete frenum ladder with 4-5 piercings therefore extends over a period of approximately 6 to 12 months.
Planning the ladder
If you are aiming for a frenum ladder, please let us know at the first appointment. This way, we can optimally plan the placement of the first piercing for later extension and ensure even spacing.
Benefits
The frenum piercing offers a range of benefits that make it one of the most popular male genital piercings:
- ✓ Easy healing: With a healing time of only 4 to 8 weeks, the frenum is among the fastest-healing genital piercings. The tissue on the underside of the penis is well-supplied with blood and regenerates quickly.
- ✓ Low pain: Even without local anaesthesia, the frenum is described as one of the less painful genital piercings. With our standard anaesthesia, the procedure is completely painless.
- ✓ Enhanced stimulation for the partner: The barbell balls create additional stimulation during intercourse for the partner. This effect increases significantly with a frenum ladder featuring multiple barbells.
- ✓ Versatility: The frenum can be worn as a single piercing, as a pair or as a complete ladder. It also combines excellently with other piercings such as the Prince Albert.
- ✓ Jewellery variety: Straight barbells in various lengths, gauges and materials offer numerous customisation options. After healing, jewellery with gemstones or made from gold can also be used.
Jewellery
For the frenum, a straight barbell made from implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136) is used as initial jewellery. The gauge is typically 1.6mm (14ga) or 2.0mm (12ga), with thicker gauges available on request.
The barbell length is individually adjusted and includes some room for initial swelling. After healing, the initial jewellery can be exchanged for a shorter barbell that sits closer to the tissue.
Long-term jewellery options after complete healing include:
- Straight barbells in various lengths and gauges
- Barbells with decorative ends (balls, spikes, flat discs)
- Jewellery in high-quality gold (14k or 18k)
- Barbells made from niobium (hypoallergenic, anodisable in various colours)
Healing and aftercare
The healing time for the frenum is 4 to 8 weeks. The underside of the penis has good blood supply, which promotes swift healing. In the first few days, mild swelling and minimal bleeding may occur — both are normal.
- Cleaning: Clean daily with sterile saline solution (0.9% NaCl). Gently pat dry, do not rub.
- Sexual abstinence: Refrain from sexual activities for at least 3 to 4 weeks. The mechanical stress during intercourse can disrupt the healing process.
- Clothing: Prefer loose, soft cotton underwear. Tight trousers can exert pressure on the barbell.
- Sports: Reduce intensive sports in the first 1-2 weeks. Cycling and horse riding in particular should be avoided until initial healing is complete.
Photo Gallery
Example photos of this piercing performed at XS Piercing Basel. The gallery contains explicit content.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be circumcised for a frenum piercing?
No, a frenum piercing is possible for both circumcised and uncircumcised men. For uncircumcised men, the piercing is placed under the retracted foreskin. After the procedure, the foreskin can slide over the jewellery as normal. The placement is individually adjusted during the consultation.
How many frenum piercings do I need for a ladder?
A frenum ladder (Jacob's Ladder) typically consists of 3 to 6 piercings, evenly distributed along the underside of the shaft. The exact number depends on the length of the penile shaft and the desired spacing between the barbells. We recommend proceeding gradually — start with the first frenum closest to the glans and add more after complete healing.
Can I change the jewellery myself after healing?
Yes, after complete healing (8 weeks) you can change the barbell yourself with clean hands and some practice. Make sure to use implant-grade material jewellery and the correct length. For the first change, feel free to come to us — we will show you the technique and advise you on the optimal jewellery size for the healed piercing channel.
Interested in the frenum piercing?
Whether a single frenum or a complete ladder — schedule a consultation and get detailed advice. Discreet, professional and with local anaesthesia.