Everything You Need to Know About Urethral Sounding & Sounding Rods

Urethral sounding was once a medical maneuver but it has since been adopted by kinksters as a beloved activity to stimulate the nerves inside the urethra. If you're not familiar with this type of play or sounding rods, the tools used to stimulate the urethra, you're not alone.

To find out more about this unique practice — including safety, types of sounding rods available, and proper use for maximum enjoyment — I spoke with Dr. Farhan Malik who serves as a medical director for two practices as well as the consulting physician for the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission.

What is urethral sounding?

This act was originally developed to treat urethral strictures, an issue that occurs when the urethra narrows, and as a diagnostic tool, but clearly it has transcended its origins. Urethral sounding has been adapted to bring excitement to explorers of all identities.

As per Dr. Malik, “Urethral sounding is the practice of inserting thin rods called a urethral sound into the urethra for sexual stimulation. It is a form of sexual play that involves carefully inserting smooth, polished rods into the urethra. The urethra is lined with thousands of nerve endings that can provide pleasurable sensations.”

Engaging in urethral sounding can offer a novel experience, pushing one’s boundaries and expectations. Plus, it offers a unique opportunity to penetrate another hole!

Is urethral sounding safe?

Like most BDSM activities, there are risks associated with this type of play. Knowing how to use sounding rods can help eliminate some risks, and having knowledge of the anatomy is helpful as well.

“The urethra is sensitive and delicate, so sounding should only be done gently. Care must be taken not to perforate the urethra or bladder with overly large sounds. Urethral strictures or other anatomical abnormalities may increase risks. Even done properly, sounding carries risks of urinary tract infections, urethral injury, and scarring,” said Dr. Malik.

Part of playing safely with any kinky or sexual activity is ensuring that all participants have a comprehensive understanding of what could go wrong and what to do if it does. During negotiations and conversations prior to playing, be sure to discuss health concerns and how they might relate to play. Conditions that might prevent someone from engaging in urethral sounding include damage to the urethra, active outbreak of any STIs, chronic UTIs, and pain when urinating. 

What is a sounding rod?

Urethral sounding rods are long thin rods used for urethral play. They come in a variety of materials, the safest ones being stainless steel and silicone. A stainless steel toy provides ease of sterilization as well as the bonus sensory experience of its cold surface. A silicone sounding rod offers more flexibility, which is a plus because everyone’s anatomy is different. It could also provide more comfort due to being less rigid than a metal one.

If electroplay is something you also enjoy, consider trying an electrosex toy with a sounding rod. There are even vibrating sounding rods which provide extra tingles for your play!

A sounding rod set is a great place to start your urethral sounding journey because it offers a variety of sizes, which allows you to start small and build up. Sounding rods are typically measured in French sizes which indicate the diameter of the tool.

Sounding rods also come in different shapes that provide a variety of feelings. Straight ones provide direct stimulation and are easier to handle, which is perfect for beginners. A curved sounding rod helps reach specific areas of the urethra. There are also tapered ones that increase in diameter, which allows for a slow stretch as it's further inserted during play.

Types of Sounding Rods

There are several different kinds of sounding rods you can use if you're ready to try urethral sounding.

Bakes sounds

These sounding rods have a long, thin shaft with a bulb on the end, giving them the nickname "rosebuds." Due to its shape, there is less chance of perforation and damage to the urethra which makes it a great option for those with a vulva. These would be my recommendation for new tops as they can be very easy to maneuver and hold on to.

Dittel sounds

These types of urethral sounds have one flat end while the other is a straight, tapered tip which allows for easy insertion and removal. These are recommended for folks with any level of experience.

Hank sounds

Also called Hegar sounds, these toys have an S-shaped curve and are typically shorter than most other sounds. They are double-ended, with a different diameter at each end, which allows for gradual dilation. 

Pratt sounds

They are typically longer and double ended, measuring almost a foot long. Each side has a different size which, means you can use one toy in multiple different ways! The ends are rounded and slightly bent, which offer a variety of sensations. The curve sets them apart from straight sounds.

Van Buren sounds

Another type of curved sounding rod, these are designed to follow the natural curvature of a urethra in a penis. The J-shape allows for deeper penetration, which could stimulate the prostate. Due to this, it can provide an extremely pleasurable sensation for those with a penis but may not work as well for someone with a vulva. 

How to use sounding rods

Learning how to use a sounding rod toy can help eliminate the potential risks, providing a safe, exhilarating adventure.

Dr. Malik explained, "The best ways to use sounding rods involve proper sterilization, lubrication, and gradual insertion to minimize discomfort and potential injury. It is crucial to use only medical-grade stainless steel or silicone rods specifically designed for urethral play. Before and after each use, thorough cleaning and sterilization are essential to prevent bacterial infections. Additionally, using a generous amount of sterile lubricant will help ease insertion and prevent any abrasions.”

When starting your sounding journey, make sure you are using a smaller implement so you can avoid trauma to the urethra. However, smallest isn't always better! Make sure to choose a sounding rod that closely matches the diameter of the urethra as using one that's too small could tear the tissue inside the urethra.

It’s also important to encourage the person receiving to relax as much as possible because tensing up can cause the urethra to tighten. The person inserting the sounding rod may want to engage in breathing exercises with the receiver to help them loosen up, taking breaks as needed.

Dr. Malik added “Sounds should never be inserted forcefully and techniques like gentle rotations rather than thrusting are recommended.”

Go slow and allow the person to enjoy every sensation. Make sure to stay attuned to the receiver's comfort level, and watch for any signs of distress.

The bottom line

When approached with care and consent, urethral sounding can help you reach new heights while fostering intimacy between partners. As trust deepens and boundaries are pushed, people often find that they get lost in the moment, blending together vulnerability with ecstasy. It’s not just about the physical act but the connection built through shared desires and the exploration of pleasure.

Before diving into this risky play, make sure everyone is educated on the anatomy involved, proper sterilization practices, and safe insertion techniques.

Dr. Malik left me with these words which I think are valuable to remember: “Patience, relaxation, and communication with your partner are key to a safe and enjoyable experience.”