Pubic Piercing

The pubic piercing is a surface piercing on the mons pubis, typically placed directly at the base of the penile shaft. The jewellery runs horizontally beneath the skin surface, with both ends (balls or flat discs) visible.

It is a primarily aesthetic piercing that does not penetrate deeper tissue structures. The pubic piercing forms a decorative accent above the penis and can optically complement other genital piercings. On its own, it creates a distinctive and unusual appearance.

As a surface piercing, the pubic differs from most other genital piercings in that it does not pass through a natural tissue fold or body opening. Instead, the jewellery sits in a shallow skin pocket created by the piercer. This placement has implications for long-term stability, which we explain further below.

The standard placement of the pubic piercing is horizontal, directly above the base of the penis on the mons pubis. The jewellery sits in the slightly padded skin layer of the mons pubis, where sufficient tissue is present to accommodate the barbell stably.

Optimal placement considers several factors:

• ✓ Tissue thickness: The mons pubis must have sufficient subcutaneous fat tissue so that the surface bar can be stably embedded.
• ✓ Freedom of movement: The jewellery must not be placed in a zone that is subject to strong tension during movement (walking, bending, sports).
• ✓ Clothing: The position must be chosen so that the waistband does not press directly on the jewellery. This is a common cause of irritation with surface piercings in this area.

The jewellery choice has a significant impact on the long-term stability of the pubic piercing. At XS Piercing, we generally recommend a surface bar instead of a curved barbell.

As a surface piercing, the pubic piercing has a fundamentally higher migration and rejection risk than piercings that pass through natural tissue folds or deeper tissue (such as the Prince Albert or frenum).

Migration describes the gradual movement of the jewellery out of the tissue. The body recognises the jewellery as a foreign body and attempts to push it to the surface. Factors that can accelerate migration:

• Unsuitable jewellery (curved barbell instead of surface bar)
• Friction from tight clothing or belts
• Mechanical stress (sports, intercourse)
• Inadequate care or chronic irritation
• Physical predisposition (some people are more prone to rejection)

It is important to assess these risks realistically. Many surface piercings can be worn stably for years when professionally placed and carefully maintained. Nevertheless, every wearer should know that a surface piercing may not last a lifetime.

The location of the pubic piercing at the base of the penis means that it can come into contact with the waistband in daily life. This is one of the most important factors for the long-term success of this piercing.

• Underwear: Loose boxers or briefs made from soft cotton fabric are ideal. Avoid synthetic materials and very tight styles.
• Waistband: Make sure that the waistband does not press directly on the jewellery. Trousers with a low or elastic waistband are more comfortable than styles with stiff belt loops.
• Belts: A belt can exert constant pressure on the piercing. During healing and beyond, you should avoid belts or wear them loosely.
• Sports: Athletic activities that stress the waistband area should be adapted. A soft plaster can serve as a protective layer between clothing and piercing if needed.

The pubic piercing can optically complement other genital piercings and complete the overall look:

• Pubic + Prince Albert: A decorative frame at the upper end of the penis, complemented by the classic PA at the glans.
• Pubic + Frenum Ladder: The pubic piercing forms the finish of the ladder at the base of the penis, visually completing the row.
• Pubic + Hafada: Together they create a decorative pattern across the entire genital area.

For combination projects, we recommend letting each piercing heal individually before adding the next. This way, you can optimally adjust the placement of each new piercing to the existing ensemble.

The healing time for the pubic piercing is 8 to 12 weeks. As it is a surface piercing, care is particularly important for long-term success.

• Cleaning: Clean daily with sterile saline solution (0.9% NaCl). Keep both exit points carefully clean.
• Do not touch: Do not move or turn the jewellery unnecessarily. With surface piercings, any mechanical stress is counterproductive.
• Sexual abstinence: At least 4 to 6 weeks recommended, as the area is exposed to friction and pressure during sexual activity.
• Monitor: Watch for signs of migration (jewellery becomes more visible, skin above it becomes thinner) and contact us if you notice anything unusual.