Everything you need to know about nipple clamps
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- By Paisley Gilmour, Lois Shearing and Sophie Williams
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They’re really not as scary as they sound
DISCLAIMER: Always get consent when trying something new. If you are unsure about any of the terms mentioned in this article please refer to our expert guide to BDSM. If you are concerned about your safety or need advice on sex and sexuality, speak with a sexual health professional or counsellor or contact Brook for anonymous support.
Did you know some women can orgasm through nipple play? We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: our bodies are incredible. But for those who were unaware that nipple orgasms do exist, let us change your sexual world by telling you that some research has shown that nipple stimulation can activate the exact same areas of the brain as clitoral/vaginal stimulation does.
It’s true — the nips are some of the most sensitive parts of the body, and if you’ve ever had someone pay them extra close attention during outercourse or sex, you’ll be able to back us up when we say it feels soooo good.
Granted, like any bedroom activity, it might not be for everyone. But whether you’re into it and want to experiment further, or you’re simply intrigued to give your nips some loving, it’s certainly worth giving nipple clamps a try. Especially because some are so beautiful they are legit works of art.
Lovehoney sex and bondage expert, Jess Wilde, who we called on to give you the lowdown on all things nipple play, says that “nipple clamps provide a scintillating pinch and leave nipples extra sensitive for subsequent play once removed”.
Explaining that they’re a “thrilling toy for boosting above-the-waist pleasure”, and “perfect for enhancing both solo and couples play”, she adds that there are dozens of clamps to try, too. From vibrating to chain clamps, there’s bound to be a style you’ll love. Ready to give it a go? Here's everything you need to know before using nipple clamps for the first time.
How to use nipple clamps
Test them first
First things first, Wilde warns that nipple clamps aren't for everyone, and sometimes there is an element of pain involved. But, you can ‘try before you buy’ by doing a ‘patch test’ on a different/less sensitive part of the body before applying the clamps to the nipple.
For example, she suggests trying out new clamps on your ear lobe as this will help you decide whether that sensation is something you might enjoy. Then if you find out you do like it, you can try them on your nipples.
Erect is better
Wilde says that it’s always best to “make sure your nipples are erect” before applying the clamps. “This can be done with the tongue, fingers, or by using another product, such as a nipple sucker which you squeeze and release over the areola (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple) to create a gentle vacuum that increases size and sensitivity.” Once your nipples are erect, the next step is to slide the clamps onto the base of your nipples.
Maximum arousal
Because clamps restrict and enhance the blood flow to the nipples, they make them super sensitive. AKA, extra arousal. Wilde says that “once applied, you can heighten sensations by tugging on the clamps or applying weights to them”.
But, she teases that the “real magic happens when the clamps are removed”. This is because “after having restricted blood flow during wear, the removal sends a rush of blood to the area, treating the user to sensational throbbing and heightened sensitivity”.
Know when to stop
As Wilde just explained, “nipple clamps give their best results once they’re removed” thanks to the rush of blood that creates the “arousing throb and tingle”. To achieve the full effect of the clamps, Wilde says that this is the time to “follow up with a bullet vibe, feather tickler, or kisses and nibbles” so you can “take full advantage of the nips new receptiveness to touch”.
Mixing it up
Feeling confident with those nipple clamps? If so, Wilde urges you to experiment with other nipple toys in conjunction with the clamps. She explains: “With the nipple still sensitive from the clamps, remove them and replace them with vibrating nipple lassos — they offer hands-free nipple stimulation without the pinch provided by clamps.”
Mind those piercings
You may be thinking, ‘Can I still use nipple clamps if I have my nipples pierced?’ The short answer is yes. Even though “traditional nipple piercings tend to be in exactly the same place where you’d want to apply the clamps” (at the base of the nipple with the jewellery visible on either side), you can keep them in. “You just need to adjust the position of the clamps — placing them so they pinch horizontally rather than vertically,” Wilde concludes.
Happy experimenting!