If you’re into some BDSM play, ball gags are a great way to start dipping your toes into some sadomasochism and power-dynamic play. They are sex toys that might look intimidating and a bit weird at first sight but are actually super fun and sexy.
So, if you’re curious to learn how to use a ball gag, which one to choose, and what things you need to keep in mind if you’re a beginner, keep reading.
What is a ball gag?
A ball gag or a mouth ball is a sex toy that is commonly used in BDSM play. It is often in the shape of a ball that’s made with rubber or silicone and has a strap attached to it that can be secured on the wearer’s head.
The ball gag is supposed to prevent the wearer from being able to speak and might make them drool uncontrollably. The ball gag won’t prevent the wearer from making sounds, though, and it usually still allows them to breathe comfortably.
Brief history
Before ball gags were sexy, there were a few different uses for them. They were used by doctors during various medical procedures like electroconvulsive therapy so patients had something to bite on and stayed quiet.
There is also evidence that devices like ball gags were used in the past as a way to silence and humiliate prisoners.
Why are ball gags sexy?
Nowadays, ball gags are used during sexy activities and they are quite popular amongst the BDSM practitioners for a few reasons.
First of all, the ball gag is the perfect tool for those who are looking to explore powerplay. The person who wears a ball gag is usually taking on the role of a submissive. They have their ability to speak taken away, they can’t control their drooling and that sort of powerplay dynamic is a turn-on for many people.
Some might also find it arousing to have their mouth forced open, and the sense of helplessness and vulnerability can be a thrilling experience during a BDSM scene.
Also, a ball gag can be used as a means to humiliate or punish a submissive during a BDSM scene, which is another sort of play that can be very arousing for people. One study also found that wearing a ball gag might even impact how the wearer experiences pain.
6 types of ball gags
There are a few different types of ball gags you can choose from:
Ball gag
The most popular is of course the regular ball gag that has a ball that’s fitted in the wearer’s mouth and has a strap that’s used to secure the device around their head. The ball is usually made from silicone or rubber, and it can come in various shapes, like a rose or even a hamburger.
Some of the beginner ball gags have breathing holes to make breathing a bit easier.
Bar gag
A bar gag has a horizontal bar instead of a ball. It is fitted in the wearer’s mouth, and they can bite onto it. This type of mouth gag makes it easier to breathe and it leaves more space for the wearer to make noises.
Lip gag
A lip gag has a plastic mouth expander shaped like massive lips that can be inserted in the wearer’s mouth to prevent them from closing it. These ball gags can be used for gagged blowjobs.
O-ring gag
Another type of mouth gag is an O-ring gag which has a plastic or a metal ring that’s fitted in a wearer’s mouth instead of a ball. The wearer can bite on it and it prevents them from closing their mouth. This type of ball gag is more breathable and allows the wearer to make more sounds.
Spider gag
A spider gag is pretty similar to the O-ring gag, and it has a metal ring in the middle, but it also has four metal spires that extend out of the ring. The metal O-ring is fitted in the wearer’s mouth and the four metal spires go out and hold it firmly in place, so the wearer can’t spit out the ring.
It is fully breathable and also can be used for gagged blowjobs.
Dildo gag
The last type of ball gag you might come across is the dildo gag. It has a small dildo instead of a ball or a ring that’s fitted inside the wearer’s mouth. It’s great for simulating the feeling of an extended blowjob and even deep-throating while the person wears it.
How to use a ball gag safely
Now, let’s go over some tips on how to use a ball gag even if you’re a beginner.
Choose the right ball gag
First of all, it’s important to choose the right ball gag for you. Depending on your level of experience, personal preferences, and what feels comfortable, one type of mouth gag will be more suitable for you than others.
For example, if you’re a total beginner, you might want to choose a ball gag that is super breathable, like a bar gag, a ball gag with breathing holes, or simply an O-ring gag.
Also, consider the material of the gag – if you’ve never used one before, you might want to choose a silicone or rubber one rather than metal which will be much gentler on your mouth and teeth.
You should also pay attention to the size of the ball when buying a ball gag. They come in various different sizes, and beginners should always choose a smaller ball gag to start with. As you progress and get more familiar with the toy, you can always upgrade to a bigger ball.
Lastly, consider the aesthetics of the ball gag you choose. It’s just as much about appearance as it is about use, so make sure you’re choosing one that’s attractive to you. You can definitely choose a rose-shaped ball gag over a medical-looking spider gag – everyone should use what looks most appealing to them.
Safety comes first
When engaging in any sort of BDSM experience, safety should always be at the forefront. Usually, you always choose a safeword or decide to use a traffic light system to communicate during the scenes, but because ball gags prevent people from speaking, it is important you find an alternative.
So, instead of a safeword, make sure you agree on a safe signal. For example, the gagged partner might hold a handkerchief that they can wave or drop to indicate that the scene needs to pause or stop.
Otherwise, you can agree on a hand signal like tapping twice or showing a certain sign that would indicate that the gagged partner needs a break. It’s also important for the controlling partner to do regular check-ins and be ready to look out for a safe signal.
Also, if you’re using more than one form of restraint on one partner, never leave them alone in a room. They might need to remove the ball gag and they might not be able to do so if they have their hands restrained, which can cause distress for the gagged partner.
Time out
It’s not recommended to wear a ball gag for prolonged periods of time, especially if you’re a beginner. So, when playing, wear the ball gag for no more than twenty minutes at a time. You can take a break and then wear it again if you feel like it.
It’s not all about sex
Remember, ball gags are not all about sex. For many people BDSM play is less about sexual activity and more about mental play, so consider using the ball gag as a way to embrace the mental powerplay with your partner without sex to see how you both feel and enjoy the experience.
Mix and match
When you are ready, consider adding other toys to your experience together with a mouth gag. Using your favorite sex toys on a gagged partner can be a very fun way to experiment with edging or orgasm control. And, combining different sensations like using a ball gag and a blindfold at the same time can help you create an unforgettable experience.
It’s also a great way to always keep things new and exciting. You will never get bored of using a ball gag if you will use it with different toys and accessories, always finding different ways to explore pleasure with your partner.
Wash your ball gag
Just like with your sex toys, it’s important to make sure you keep your ball gag clean at all times. Because our saliva has bacteria, it’s important to clean your ball gag properly after each use to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
You can easily wash it with some mild soap and warm water and then dry it before storing it with your other sex toys. If you want to be extra, consider getting a disinfectant spray for an added layer of protection.
