Guiche piercings are located on the perineum — the area between the anus and genitals.

Some folks believe perineum piercings (aka guiche piercings or taint piercings) can increase sexual pleasure. But, due to their location between the genitals and anus, there’s an increased risk of infection or irritation.

Here’s a rundown of the pros and cons of getting your guiche pierced. Plus, the deets on aftercare, cost, and the best jewelry to use.

diagram of a guiche piercingShare on Pinterest
Illustration by Brittany England

The perineum (aka guiche or taint) is a small patch of skin between the anus and genitals. Some like to have their perineum pierced for physical pleasure or aesthetic appeal.

These piercings are more popular in peeps with penises. However, folks who have vaginas can get them, too. They’re not common piercings, so you may need to find a piercer specializing in genital piercings.

Here’s what to expect at your perineum piercing appointment:

  1. The piercer will clean your perineum with a surgical-grade cleanser.
  2. The piercer will mark the location of the piercing with a marker or pen.
  3. A sterile needle is poked through the perineum.
  4. Jewelry is inserted through the piercing holes.
  5. The piercer will make sure there is no bleeding before they disinfect the area.

PSA: You should never DIY a guiche piercing. Seriously, always go to an experienced piercer who performs the piercing in a sterile setting.

Guiche piercing pain varies from person to person. Some peeps find the process very uncomfortable, while others say they can barely feel the needle going in. The good news is that the piercing itself only takes a minute or two.

Pain levels can also depend on if you get a horizontal or vertical piercing and its location. For example, piercings closer to your vagina or penis can be more painful since those are sensitive areas with many nerve endings.

Guiche piercing costs depend on the type of jewelry you use. Most jewelry ranges from $30 to $150. The piercing itself will cost about $100, but some places charge more because it’s a specialty service.

Guiche piercings come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors:

  • Curved barbells are bar piercings with a slight curve and two ball-shaped beads on both ends.
  • Captive bead rings are a ring piercing with a ball-shaped bean in the middle. Both sides of the ring connect to the ball.
  • Circular barbells are horseshoe-shaped piercings with removable ball-shaped beads on both ends.

FYI: Most piercers recommend starting with curved barbell piercings because they’re the most comfortable.

Taint piercings have no proven benefits. However, some folks say that having a perineum piercing increases sensation and sexual enjoyment.

Some say that tugging or gently pulling the piercing can help stimulate pleasurable nerves in the anus and genital area. This might increase orgasm intensity, but everyone is different. Some peeps also find the look of a guiche piercing arousing.

All piercings come with a certain degree of risk. But since guiche piercings are super close to the anus and genitals, there’s a higher chance of infection. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Nerve damage. The piercing procedure can injure nerve endings. Nerve damage may lead to reduced or lost sensation in that area.
  • Rejection. Your body may reject the piercing. Studies show that piercing complications can include migration — when the piercing is pushed out of the skin.
  • Embedding. Small jewelry can get embedded in the skin. Your skin can then grow over the jewelry, trapping it inside.
  • Infections. According to a 2022 study, localized cellulitis is the most common infection caused by body piercings. Cellulitis tends to be very treatable, but if left unchecked, it can lead to serious concerns like toxic shock syndrome.
  • Allergic reaction.Be careful about the type of metal jewelry you use. Avoid nickel, which is the most common metal allergy. Instead, stick to 14-karat gold or surgical titanium.
  • Skin tearing. Your piercing may get ripped out of your skin if it gets snagged on something or pulled too aggressively.

Guiche piercings are placed in a sensitive area. That means a pierced perineum might affect your daily routine more than facial piercings. Here are some things to keep in mind before you get one:

  • Avoid activities or clothing that pull or tug at the piercing.
  • You have to keep the area very clean until it’s 10/10 healed.
  • Be sure to clean the area thoroughly before your piercing appointment.
  • Avoid getting piercings if you have a history of keloid scars.
  • Your risk of rejection or embedding is higher if you’ve experienced it before.
  • Guiche piercings can get uncomfortable if you enjoy biking or horseback riding. But some folks also experience discomfort when sitting for extended lengths of time.

Reminder: Only go to an experienced piercer. This can reduce your risk of infection, incorrect placement, and nerve damage.

Guiche piercings can take up to 6 months to fully heal, and it’s essential to stick to a solid aftercare regime. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do.

Do’sDont’s
Remove any crusting with a sterile saline solution.Use creams, lotions, or powders on the area.
Wash the piercing after swimming.Tug or pull on the piercing for at least 1 month.
Use a cleaning solution once a day until the wound heals.Use antiseptics or soaps for 1 day after the piercing.
Gently clean the piercing with a non-irritating soap starting one day after the piercing goes in.Rub the area with a towel. (Instead, dab the area gently with a clean towel.)
Take the bandages off six hours after the piercing procedure and enjoy a quick shower.Have sex until you have no crusting, swelling, or discomfort. This can take several days or longer.

Guiche piercings are located on the perineum the area of skin located between the anus and genitals. While there are no proven perks, many peeps claim this piercing can increase pleasurable sexual sensations. Perineum piercings are more common in peeps with a penis, but those with a vagina can also get the piercing.

Guiche piercings can be very safe if performed by an experienced piercer in a sterile setting. However, there are still some risks, like infections, nerve damage, and torn skin. You also have to follow a strict aftercare routine to reduce your risk of side effects.