Ben Wa Balls
Tiny, weighty balls with a surprisingly long history in pleasure and pelvic wellness.
Ben Wa Balls: Ben Wa Balls are small weighted balls worn inside the vagina, used for gentle pelvic floor exercise or subtle internal stimulation. They come in a range of sizes, weights, and materials.
Also known as: Kegel balls, pleasure balls, vaginal balls.
Ben Wa Balls have been around for centuries, originally used across parts of Asia for both pleasure and pelvic strengthening. Today they are popular for much the same reasons. The gentle weight creates a subtle internal sensation as you move, and the muscles naturally engage to hold the balls in place. That passive engagement is what makes them useful for pelvic floor training.
If you feel a bit nervous about trying them for the first time, that is completely normal. Start with a larger, lighter set, as these are easier to hold and feel less intimidating than small, heavy ones. Most people wear them for short sessions of around 15 to 20 minutes to begin with, building up gradually at their own pace. Always choose body safe materials like silicone, stainless steel, or glass, and give them a thorough clean before and after every use.
Types of Ben Wa Balls
Ben Wa Balls come in several styles, so there is a good option for every experience level.
- Single ball: One weighted ball worn alone, a simple and beginner friendly starting point with a subtle, gentle sensation.
- Double ball set: Two balls connected by a cord, offering a little more stimulation and easier removal thanks to the retrieval string.
- Silicone coated: A soft silicone shell around a weighted inner ball, making them comfortable, body safe, and easy to clean.
- Stainless steel: Smooth, non porous, and heavier for their size, these are a favourite for those who want a more advanced weighted feel.
- Adjustable weight sets: Kits that let you swap inner weights so you can increase resistance gradually as your pelvic floor gets stronger.
Curious to try? Browse our beginner friendly kegel balls and take your time choosing. Every HotCherry order ships discreetly. And if you want help picking, our kegel balls guide walks you through it step by step.
Key things to know
- Ben Wa Balls are used for pelvic floor exercise as well as pleasure, so they offer a practical benefit beyond sensation alone.
- Starting with a larger, lighter ball is easier to hold in place, which makes the experience less stressful for beginners.
- Body safe materials like silicone, stainless steel, and glass are non porous and simple to clean, keeping things hygienic every time.
- Most beginners start with sessions of 15 to 20 minutes, because overworking the pelvic floor muscles can cause fatigue just like any other muscle group.
- A retrieval cord or string is an important safety feature, making removal straightforward and stress free.
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FAQ
Are Ben Wa Balls safe to use?
Yes, when used correctly and made from body safe materials they are very safe. Stick to silicone, stainless steel, or glass, and avoid anything made from jelly rubber or mystery plastics. Always make sure your set has a retrieval cord, especially when you are starting out, so removal is simple and stress free.
How long should I wear them?
Start with around 15 to 20 minutes per session and see how your body feels. Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles, and like any muscles they can get tired. There is no rush to increase the time, so build up gradually at your own pace.
Do I need lubricant?
A small amount of water based lubricant on the balls makes insertion much more comfortable. Avoid silicone based lube if your balls have a silicone coating, as it can break down the material over time. A little lube goes a long way and makes the whole experience more pleasant.
How do I clean Ben Wa Balls?
Wash them with warm water and a toy cleaner or mild unscented soap before and after every use. Stainless steel and glass sets can be boiled or put on the top rack of a dishwasher for a deeper clean. Silicone coated balls should be washed by hand to keep the surface in good condition.
What size should I start with?
Bigger and lighter is the best combination for beginners. A larger ball is easier for your muscles to grip and hold, so you get the benefit without the frustration of it slipping out. As your pelvic floor gets stronger you can move to smaller or heavier options if you want more of a challenge.
Can Ben Wa Balls actually strengthen the pelvic floor?
They can support pelvic floor engagement when used as part of a regular routine, because your muscles work passively to keep the balls in place. However, if you have specific pelvic floor concerns it is always worth speaking to a physiotherapist or clinician for personalised guidance. Ben Wa Balls are a helpful addition to a wellness routine, but they are not a medical treatment.
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