A mouth gag is a simple sex toy commonly used in BDSM play that renders the wearer unable to speak, increasing the feeling of submission.
What is a Mouth Gag
A gag is any sex toy, commonly used by those engaging in BDSM sex play, that's placed inside the wearer's mouth to prevent them from speaking normally. A ball gag is a specific type of gag with a spherical object—usually a silicone or rubber ball—that is strapped into a person’s mouth, and secured with belt-like leather straps that wrap around the back of the head.
A ball gag may cause the wearer to drool uncontrollably and will prevent them from speaking, but they can still make indiscernible noises like moans and grunts. When using a ball gag during BDSM role play, the gag-wearer is traditionally considered the submissive partner while the other ungagged participant is the dominant partner.
How to Use a Ball Gag
Here are some important safety tips that will set you up for success when using your ball gag.
Set expectations. The most important element of any BDSM play is mutual consent between partners. Before experimenting with a ball gag, discuss what sexual activities you will both be comfortable with while using it and set some expectations. Agree on a maximum time limit to use the gag for—ten to fifteen minutes is a good amount of time to start. Have the wearer try the ball gag on, so they can tell you how tight is comfortable for them.
Decide on a safe signal. It's common practice in a BDSM scene for partners to choose a safe word before sex so they can communicate a desire to stop or ease up without interrupting the mood. Using a ball gag limits a partner’s ability to speak, so you’ll want to pick a non-verbal safe signal that the wearer can use to indicate that their partner should stop and remove the ball gag. The action might be a hand signal, a tap on the back, or an audible cue like squeezing a squeaky toy. If the gagged partner is tied up and does not have use of their hands, their safe signal could be to aggressively shake their head "no" while audibly grunting.
Never leave a gagged partner alone. It may or may not be possible for the wearer to remove the gag on their own if you’re using physical restraints. That's why it's crucial that you never leave your gagged partner alone so that they always have someone nearby to remove the gag if necessary.
Avoid using a ball gag if you have a cold. Since you cannot breathe through your mouth while wearing most ball gags, refrain from using one if you currently have a cold, sinus infection, or any other condition making it difficult to breathe through your nose.
Incorporate other toys when you’re ready. If you're experimenting with BDSM play for the first time, using a ball gag on its own is definitely a good start. But once you feel comfortable with the ball gag and want to explore other elements of BDSM, consider incorporating other sex toys into your role play, such as a blindfold, handcuffs, spanker, or nipple clamps.
Wash your gag regularly. To prevent the growth and transmission of bacteria, be sure to wash your ball gag after each use with soap and water. Disinfect your ball gag periodically for an extra layer of defense against germs.
Type of mouth gags
