Empress Piercing

Empress Piercing: The Intimate Piercing with Regal Appeal

The Empress piercing is one of the lesser known but increasingly admired intimate piercings designed to enhance pleasure, personal confidence and body adornment. A relatively modern term in the realm of genital piercings, the Empress refers to a vertical double hood piercing typically placed through the clitoral hood in two points to accommodate double jewellery or a more decorative configuration. Named for its bold beauty and association with femininity and power, the Empress is a piercing that blends sensuality with elegance.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the Empress piercing—from what it actually is, to the piercing procedure, healing time, potential benefits and whether it might be right for you.

What Is an Empress Piercing?

The Empress piercing is essentially a double vertical clitoral hood piercing (VCH), performed in such a way that the jewellery sits vertically through the tissue of the clitoral hood twice once through each side of the hood’s natural vertical fold. While not an officially standard term in the body piercing industry, it’s often used in the UK and US to describe a style-forward take on the classic VCH.

Unlike the clitoris itself, which is packed with nerve endings and not suitable for piercing, the clitoral hood is protective tissue that can be safely pierced with little risk when performed by an experienced professional. The Empress piercing creates a more ornamental look while retaining the sensual stimulation benefits often associated with hood piercings.

This piercing is suitable only for individuals with appropriate anatomy, meaning enough tissue and a well-defined hood to support vertical placement. Not everyone will be a candidate, so a thorough consultation is essential.

How the Procedure Works

The first step is always an anatomical check. A professional piercer with intimate piercing experience will examine the clitoral hood to determine if a double vertical placement is feasible and safe. The area must allow for comfortable placement of two pieces of jewellery without pinching, tension or pressure on the clitoris itself.

Once cleared for the procedure, the area is cleaned thoroughly using a medical-grade antiseptic. The piercer will mark the entry and exit points, usually with you standing or lying down to ensure accuracy with natural posture. The piercing is done using sterile, single-use needles one at a time carefully guided through the tissue. Each piercing is swift, precise and followed immediately by the insertion of curved barbells or straight bars depending on anatomy.

The procedure is intimate but handled with professionalism and respect. Both piercings are usually completed within the same session, taking around 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish.

Pain and Sensation

Vertical clitoral hood piercings are often described as being less painful than expected. The tissue pierced does not contain as many nerve endings as the clitoris itself, and the pain is brief—more of a sharp pressure than a lasting sting. Some find the second piercing slightly more sensitive than the first due to swelling or anticipation, but both are over quickly.

There may be a throbbing or aching sensation for a few hours after the procedure, followed by minor swelling and tenderness for a few days. Wearing loose underwear and avoiding friction will help ease discomfort.

Healing and Aftercare

Healing time for an Empress piercing is usually around four to eight weeks, depending on individual healing speed and how well the area is cared for. The genitals are highly vascular, which tends to speed up the healing process compared to cartilage or surface piercings.

Cleaning should be done gently once or twice a day using sterile saline solution or a piercing aftercare spray. The area should be kept dry and well-ventilated, which means avoiding tight clothing and synthetic underwear during healing.

Sexual activity should be avoided for at least two weeks, possibly longer, depending on sensitivity and healing progress. When you do resume intimacy, be gentle, and ensure hands and toys are clean. Avoid oral contact until the piercing is fully healed to reduce the risk of infection.

Cost and Jewellery Options

In the UK, an Empress piercing (being a double vertical hood piercing) typically costs between £90 and £150, depending on the studio and the quality of the jewellery. This price usually includes consultation, piercing and initial high-grade jewellery.

Jewellery options include small, curved barbells, straight bars or captive bead rings, depending on anatomy and desired look. Implant-grade titanium is the standard starting material, though gold and other precious metals may be used later on once healing is complete.

Risks and Suitability

As with any genital piercing, risks include infection, swelling, irritation, migration or incorrect placement. Choosing an experienced piercer and following strict aftercare greatly reduces the likelihood of complications. The Empress piercing should never be attempted by anyone without specialised training in intimate body piercing.

Suitability is largely anatomical. Individuals must have enough vertical hood tissue for two separate piercings with adequate spacing. Those with recessed or tight hoods may be better suited to a single VCH. If you have concerns about pain, sexual function, or healing, always raise them during your consultation.

The Empress is not recommended for individuals with blood clotting disorders, poorly controlled diabetes or those who are currently pregnant. It’s also essential that you are mentally prepared and comfortable with intimate procedures before proceeding.

Studio Standards and Choosing a Piercer

In the UK, any studio offering genital piercings must be licensed and adhere to high hygiene standards. The studio must use single-use needles, sterilised jewellery and barrier protection during the procedure. Privacy, consent and professionalism are non-negotiable. You should always feel safe, informed and respected throughout the experience.

Look for a studio with specific experience in genital piercings, and don’t hesitate to ask how many similar procedures your piercer has done. A good piercer will answer all your questions honestly and clearly.

Final Thoughts

The Empress piercing is a beautiful and empowered form of body adornment, blending elegance with eroticism. It demands both anatomical suitability and a deep sense of personal readiness. Whether you’re looking to increase sensation, express your sexuality or simply embrace your body in a new way, the Empress offers a unique route to self-expression.

With the right professional, proper care and clear expectations, the Empress piercing can be a deeply rewarding choice one that crowns your body with boldness and beauty in equal measure.