If you’ve got a partner who is into nipple play, nipple clamps can be a lot of fun. Unlike some kinks, which require specialty equipment and deep knowledge, nipple clamps are easy to pick up and can be used with standard sex toys. They can also be used for a variety of purposes, from gentle tickling to more intense pain-to-pleasure experiences.
Nipple clamps work by restricting the flow of blood to the nipples, creating a numb-meets-pleasurable feeling, says clinical sexologist and co-founder of The Swann Center Valerie Poppel. “They are great for building arousal and are super satisfying when your partner is able to exhale as the clamps open, which can feel like an ORgasm,” she adds.
However, it’s important to note that nipple clamps should only be worn for 10 minutes or less at a time because they can cause bruising and other injuries when the blood flow is restricted too long. If you notice that your nipples are starting to turn a blue-ish color, it’s probably time to take the clamps off.
It’s also a good idea to practice with the clamps before using them directly on the nipples, advises Carmel Jones, sex and relationship expert and founder of The Big Fling. Try playing with the pressure or pinch of the clamps on your fingers, then on your skin near your nipple to get a feel for it before placing them on the nipples. Some nipple clamps are even adjustable, making it easier to tailor the strength of the squeeze to your comfort level.
Once you’ve gotten the hang of it, you can use your nipple clamps with a variety of other sex toys to amp up the sensation. For instance, a feather tickler can be used to lightly brush over the nipples and areola for an added sensation. A sex toy with a chain can also be attached to the clamps to make them more interactive. For example, Sportsheets’ nipple clamps have a connector chain that can be attached to genital play toys to add an extra dimension of pleasure.
For a more advanced experience, consider trying nipple clamps that vibrate. Like the nipple pinchers, these vibrating clamps increase sensation by restricting blood flow to the nipples. However, they have a built-in vibration that gives an extra kick. Plus, they can be paired with Motorbunny to allow for creative experiences like power transfer and movement limitation, as well as a deeper level of control over the nipples.
And, if you’re still not convinced that nipple clamps are worth it, consider this: scientists have found that humans are attracted to the nipples because they can indicate fertility and pregnancy, so pinching nipples can be pretty darn romantic. So, what are you waiting for? Check out some of our favorite nipple clamps below. And don’t forget to touch base with your partner afterward to see how they’re feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically—especially if they’re trying something new!
