Perhaps I can shed a slightly different light on the subject. Others have covered well the preparation and procedure; I won't repeat that here. However, my thanks to those accounts as I enjoyed reading them and each provided confirmation, reassurance, and added to my resolve to get a piercing.
At A Glance Author ChangedForever Contact ChangedForever@bme.anon When Three months ago Artist Paul Kriner Studio Requiem Body Art Location Spring Hill, Florida, USA My original intent wasn't to get a PA ... long ago (1980s long ago – you needn't do the math, I'm 50+) ... I subscribed to PFIQ. Piercing Fans International Quarterly, which ceased publication more than a decade ago. It was well put together and had incredible photos and information. I was immediately drawn to the notion of a guiche piercing but had no idea how to locate a studio as piercing was (as far as I knew) relatively obscure, I didn't live in a metropolitan area, and I wasn't one of "those" kind of people. Nothing pierced, no tattoos. I was just as plain as my long-sleeve, white-shirted, office-worker friends. Those were the pre-Internet days; information was scarce compared to now when it is so easily accessible – both truth and fiction.
Regardless, I've had the guiche in mind for years. For no apparent reason, last year I began researching piercing again. The stories (and photos) of the guiche were appealing but some practical issues persist as I think the healing would be awkward because of my job (mostly deskwork, up and down constantly all day plus a couple of hours outdoors each day in and out of a vehicle every few minutes).
I've been interested in the PA as I think it's an impressive adornment. Committed to getting the PA, I was still clueless as to how to find a studio. Dozens of shops are listed in the phone book and just driving from here to Wal-Mart I pass several. Yet, from the outside none look as "serious" as I would like. And I still know of no one who is pierced or has had any experience. More Internet research led me to the Association of Professional Piercers website (www.safepiercing.org) which gave me a modicum of confidence. There are standards to be met, and I felt that someone who took the initiative (and doled out the cash) to become a certified member is probably more dedicated to the craft.
Which led me to Paul Kriner at Requiem Body Art in Spring Hill, Florida – about 90 minutes from me. I made initial contact via email and Paul's responses were prompt, informative, and reassuring. A few more exchanges and an appointment for after work was made.
The shop is in an attractive plaza and is beautiful inside. I'm not sure what I was expecting (as I'd already seen it on the website) but it was far beyond my expectations. Paul greeted me warmly and immediately put me at ease. We chatted briefly, discussed jewelry style and gauge, ultimately I agreed with his recommendations, and I waited briefly while he setup the room.
As I wrote above, others have described the procedure. My experience was much the same except I thought Paul spent extra time assessing placement and making recommendations which I appreciated. It seemed a much more artistic than clinical experience. Other than the brief sting there wasn't any pain, and very little bleeding. It was over before I knew it, and soon I was on my way home. Based on stories I'd read I was prepared with ice packs in the car, towels for mopping up blood, etc. Totally unnecessary.
Once home I soon needed to pee (darn that Big Gulp). I used that opportunity to pee (painless), shower, salt soak, and admire. I wrapped it in the latex glove and other than a little pain if I turned the wrong way that night all was fine. The next day I had a little bleeding ... and none since (I'm now three months into healing). Paul checked on me by email and it was good to know if I had any concern I could contact him easily.
A couple of things I'll pass on from my personal experience.
First, there were many worries by others about peeing standing up. And as others have mentioned, just holding your unit and turning it slightly so the ring is not hanging down solves that problem. Actually, sitting down I find the urine follows the ring and I end up with pee drops on the bottom of my sack requiring a little mopping up (no big deal either).
Second, particularly the first week, briefs (underwear) were uncomfortable because they put pressure on the ring. I didn't have boxers on hand, so went commando and have been enjoying that ever since. Especially when wearing shorts (after all, it's summer in Florida) it's pleasant to reach up a leg and give the ring a little tug now and then.
The actual piercing was a breeze – thanks to Paul – and the aftercare and healing have gone well. Any regrets? Only that I didn't do it (many) years ago.
I'll get that guiche yet.
Guaranteed.