Breast play, including bondage, flogging, piercing, clamping, and other forms of breast torture have been a part of the BDSM scene for a long time. Perhaps it is enjoyed by the Dom(me) and sub alike because breast bondage and other forms of breast play can act to enhance the appearance of the breasts, cause the sub to focus attention on the breasts, provide breast stimulation, and, perhaps increase the degree of submission.

Please note that breast play is not limited to women. Men can be recipients of breast play as well and many have enjoy breast stimulation.

There are some key structures of the breast that may be important in bondage and other play. The illustration on the right highlights the important structures. The nipple is surrounded by the areola, both of which contain plenty of sensory nerves that contribute to the sensations during normal and kinky sex play. These sensors also play a key role in stimulating milk production and release from the breasts

Underneath the skin are fat cells that add to the bulk of the breast's size. Deeper in the breast are the milk glands and ducts that lead to the nipple.

Each breast is supplied with a large number of blood vessels that typically are deeper under the skin, although quite a few are near the surface.

The breast rests against the chest muscles and ribs.

All parts of the breast can be used during breast play.

Equipment

Depending on the nature and how elaborate the breast bondage will be, varying lengths of rope or rubber tubing will be required.

When using any type of bondage equipment, be sure to have a way out of the equipment - quick-release clasp or belt/rope cutter.

Also, depending on effect, smooth or a coarse rope can be used. A coarse rope tends to abraid or scrape the skin and may cause more superficial injury.

Types of Breast Bondage

Breast bondage has several forms that may be varied depending on the size of the breast. Typical breast bondage may include:

• Encircling the breasts with rope
• Cinching the breasts with ropew
• Making rope bra
• Creating a rope shelf
• Using a rope harness (Japanese-style)
• Binding the breasts with rope

When binding or cinching the breasts, the blood flow out of the breasts is restricted. Blood coming into the breasts may be slowed, but not cut off. The result is swelling and discoloration of the breasts (note the skin color changes in the pictures). This, by itself, is not a concern. The fullness of the breasts may be pleasing the both Dom(me) and sub. One sub was heard to exclaim, "They're perky again!"

Breast engorgement and swelling can cause some discomfort to which a typical Dom(me) would reply, "So?"

Flogging the breasts while engorged will usually result in increased bruising since the blood vessels are swollen and easily damaged. Repeated bruising, though, can result in toughening of the tissues over time and increased resistance to bruising.

Breast bondage does not really have a time limit. However, breasts should not be allowed to become 'blue' or numb. Different people respond differently to breast bondage. Monitor the skin color and sensitivity. If numbness develops or a deep blue-purple tinge sets in, it's time to remove the binders!

Care for a bruised breast is similar to caring for any bruise. Apply cold compresses for the first 24 hours (20 minutes at a time) followed by heat for the next several days. Some people advocate the use of arnica, comfrey, or other herbal remedies. The claims associated with these remedies have not be substantiated.

Nipple Clamps

Nipple clamps are use to pinch the nipple and/or areola to create intense stimulation of these highly sensitive areas. Commerically available clamps are specifically designed for nipples whereas tools from the local hardware store may not be appropriate.

For example, never use clamps with a serrated edge (alligator clips) on a bare nipple. Be sure clips have a rubber tip to protect the tender skin.

Only use for a short time - for no more than 20 minutes - then remove. The nipples will be very sensitive and could even be painful. Remove gently...do NOT 'rip' them off since skin may also be removed in the process!

Clamps on areola

Nipple Cups

Cups are available that, when suction is applied, pulls the nipple into the cup. The suction also pulls blood into the nipple and typically causes discoloration and, perhaps a 'hickey.' Because the ridge of the cup is pressed tightly against the skin, there may be circular bruising in the area.

Treat these bruises as any other bruise - ice for first 24 hours then heat.

Play Piercing Breast and Nipples

One type of breast play involves piercing the breast and/or nipple with needles, referred to as play piercing - nothing (such as a nipple ring, etc.) remains in the nipple or breast after the. In this type of breast play, sterile hypodermic needs are inserted into the skin, the areola, or the nipple. Many use decorative patterns when play piercing.

There are several concerns here.

• Make sure the needles are sterile. Never reuse needles. OK, you would never do that, but it needed to be said!
• Use sterile neeedles and a clean technique. Do not drop the needle or lay it onto something unless it is inside the needle cap.
• Use body substance isolation techniques - rubber gloves! There may a little (or a lot) of bleeding.
• If using a through-the-skin piercing, be very careful of the sharp end and don't get stabbed. The Dom's main purpose here is NOT to get stuck!
• If piercing deeply, a larger vein or artery can be punctured. Direct pressure will be needed to control this bleeding - no you cannot use a tourniquet - it will not work!