Everything You Need to Know About Prince Albert Piercings

What is a Prince Albert Piercing?

A Prince Albert piercing, often shortened to PA piercing, is a common male genital piercing that passes through the head of the penis. Despite its name, it has no direct connection to Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. The name was given to the piercing by Doug Malloy, who claims he read in a sex manual that Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, had his penis pierced in order to attach it to his thigh with a chain to prevent an overly "pendulous erection from showing through his trousers." However, there is no historical evidence that Prince Albert actually had this genital piercing.

The Piercing Procedure

To perform a Prince Albert piercing, the piercer will use a needle to pierce through the underside of the head of the penis, angling the needle hole toward the tip. Jewelry, usually a ring or curved barbell, is then inserted into the hole to keep it open during the healing process. The procedure is usually done freehand, without clamps, though receiving tubes may be used to guide the needle and jewelry into place. It is considered one of the simpler male genital piercings to perform.

Pain and Healing

Pain levels vary greatly for Prince Albert piercings. The piercing goes through a very sensitive area with many nerve endings, so some men report it as quite painful. However, others say it only causes moderate discomfort, especially if an experienced piercer performs the procedure quickly. Healing time is typically around 6-8 weeks if proper aftercare is followed.

Risks and Complications

Possible risks and complications of a Prince Albert piercing include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Scarring
• Urination problems or spray during healing
• Rejection of the piercing

To reduce risks, it is extremely important to go to an experienced, qualified piercer and follow all aftercare instructions closely, including proper cleaning and not changing jewelry too soon.

Reasons for Getting a Prince Albert Piercing

There are a variety of motivations for getting a Prince Albert piercing:

Sexual Enhancement

Many men get Prince Albert piercings because they and/or their partners enjoy the sexual stimulation it can provide. The piercing can enhance sensation during intercourse or masturbation. The jewelry also provides visual appeal and direct clitoral stimulation for female partners during sex.

Self-Expression

Like other body piercings, Prince Alberts allow individuals to express their personal style, tastes, and interests through body modification. It allows men to stand out and decorate a very private part of their anatomy.

Masculinity

Some men feel the piercing has a very masculine, virile image. The Prince Albert is seen as a bold, confident statement of manliness by enthusiasts.

Spiritual Meaning

In certain spiritual or cultural traditions, genital piercings like the Prince Albert have held deep ritual meaning relating to rites of passage, fertility, or masculine power.

Caring for a New Prince Albert Piercing

It is extremely important to properly care for a new Prince Albert piercing during the initial healing phase. Recommended aftercare includes:

• Washing hands before touching the piercing
• Saline solution soaks once or twice daily
• Rinsing well after urination
• Wearing clean, breathable underwear
• Avoiding submerging in baths or swimming pools
• Refraining from sexual activity for 4-6 weeks
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication as needed
• Keeping jewelry in at all times, only changing after healing
• Watching closely for signs of infection like redness or discharge

Consult with the piercer on proper aftercare guidelines and address any concerns about healing, pain, or other symptoms promptly.

Long Term Care and Considerations

Once healed, Prince Albert piercings require some ongoing care and considerations:

• Practice good hygiene by washing hands before handling and cleaning gently with mild soap and water
• Rinse thoroughly after urination to prevent urine buildup on jewelry
• Avoid excessive friction during masturbation or sex
• Be selective about sexual partners to prevent STI transmission
• Use barrier protection like condoms for safer sex
• Consider risks like snagging or tearing of condoms
• Watch for signs of infection, get checked regularly if sexually active
• Be aware of potential for tearing or injury in high impact sports
• Avoid contact sports and use athletic protection when necessary
• Remove jewelry temporarily for medical procedures like surgery
• Use only high quality jewelry designed for genital piercings
• Consult with piercer before changing jewelry

With proper placement, quality jewelry, and attentive aftercare, Prince Albert piercings can provide many years of enjoyment and self-expression. But like any piercing, some precautions and care is needed for the health and safety of the wearer.

FAQs

Does getting a Prince Albert piercing hurt?

Pain levels vary greatly for Prince Albert piercings since it goes through a very sensitive area. Some men report it as quite painful, while others say it only causes moderate discomfort, especially if done quickly by an experienced piercer.

What’s the proper jewelry for a new Prince Albert piercing?

A ring or curved barbell is typically used initially for a new Prince Albert piercing. High quality surgical steel or titanium jewelry is best during healing. The piercer will provide or recommend the ideal starter jewelry.

How long does a Prince Albert piercing take to heal?

Complete healing time is typically around 6-8 weeks for a Prince Albert piercing if proper aftercare is followed. It's important not to change the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.

Can a Prince Albert piercing increase sensitivity?

Yes, many men report increased sexual sensation and stimulation after getting a Prince Albert piercing due to the jewelry rubbing and applying pressure during intercourse or masturbation.

Is urination difficult with a new Prince Albert piercing?

It’s common to experience some spraying or obstruction when urinating while a new Prince Albert piercing is healing. Proper angles and rinses after urination can help. Once healed, urination usually returns to normal.