Is a Hole Always a Hole?
Just Because You Can Stick Something in There, Should You?
If you’ve never heard of urethral sounding, you’re not alone. Up until recently, I didn’t know much about it either. But as with all things in the realm of kink and pleasure, curiosity got the best of me - especially after a friend casually dropped into conversation that they’d been exploring it.
Now, if you’re anything like me, your first reaction might be: "But… why?" closely followed by "How do you make sure you don’t… y'know… tear your dick in half?"
So, let’s get into a bit more detail…
What Even Is Urethral Sounding?
Urethral sounding is the practice of inserting a smooth, slender instrument (called a sound or dilator) into the urethra—the pee hole. While it has medical origins (doctors have used sounds for checking or clearing blockages), some people have discovered that it can be an incredibly pleasurable kink.
Yep, that’s right—turns out, the urethra is a sensitive little pathway packed with nerve endings, and for some men, stimulating it feels amazing. My next thought? ‘HOW did you even discover that?’
But… Why?
For some, it’s about the sensation—an intense, unusual feeling that enhances arousal. Others are drawn to the psychological thrill of taboo exploration. Some even incorporate sounding into orgasm control or edging, since the added stimulation can change the way they experience pleasure.
And before you judge, think of it like people discovering butt stuff for the first time: at first, it sounds wild, but for those who enjoy it, it’s just another way to experience pleasure.
The Big Question: Is It Safe?
This is where my natural fear of catastrophic penis injury kicks in. Because let’s be real—there are very specific rules when it comes to putting things inside places they don’t usually go.
Do it wrong, and you risk:
Tears or lacerations (literally sounds like the worst horror movie scenario ever)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) (because bacteria love a good opportunity)
Permanent damage to the urethra (think strictures, painful urination, and a lifetime of ‘WTF was I thinking?
So yeah, sounding is not the kind of thing you just want to MacGyver with whatever’s lying around.
How to Sound Safely (If You’re Going to Do It Anyway)
If you’re curious but cautious (a.k.a. a responsible kinky adult), here are some golden rules:
Use the Right Tools – Medical-grade, sterile sounds made specifically for urethral play are essential. No random objects. EVER!
Lube is Life – Use a sterile, water-based lubricant. Your urethra is not a dry place, but it’s also not designed for friction.
Go Slow (Seriously, SLOW) – If it hurts, stop. This is not a race.
Sterilisation is Non-Negotiable – Everything that touches the urethra needs to be cleaner than clean to avoid infection.
Listen to Your Body – If something feels off, don’t push it. And if you experience any bleeding, burning, or pain afterward—see a doctor.
If this is something you’re considering, you can find beginner-friendly kits (and more advanced ones, if you’re into that) on Lovehoney and Cherry Banana.
To Sound or Not to Sound?
Personally? I’ll pass. The idea of poking around in there makes me instinctively clench everything. But for those who enjoy it, sounding can be a safe, pleasurable addition to their sexual exploration - provided they do it right.
So, is a hole always a hole? Well… that depends. Just because you can put something in it doesn’t always mean you should. But if you are going to, at least make sure you do it safely - because nothing kills the mood faster than an emergency room visit trying to explain why the fuck your cock is currently out of commission. OUCH!!