Ben Wa Balls

Ben Wa balls, more commonly known as kegel balls, are small, weighted balls designed to be inserted into the vagina for pelvic floor muscle training and/or sexual enjoyment. 

The origin of Ben Wa balls may date back to around 500 CE in Japan (originally rin-no-tama), where they then made their way to China and were adopted for Taoist sexual practices. However, their alleged history is vague and varied. These vaginal weights are also sometimes known by a variety of other names including, orgasm balls, love balls, Venus balls, Geisha balls, jiggle balls, yoni eggs.

Ben Wa balls often come in pairs, though contemporary kegel balls can come in many weights, shapes, and sizes. They may be separate or connected by a string or some dangling element that makes for easier removal, and are made from many different materials, including silicone, metal, glass, and plastic. Stone kegel balls and weight also exists, however it is not recommended to insert stone kegel weights into the vagina given that the porosity of the material makes it impossible to disinfect properly.

Ben Wa Balls for Kegel Exercises

Kegel exercises are exercises performed with the intention of strengthening the pelvic floor. The reasons one may practice kegel exercises can vary from bladder and bowel control to preventing pelvic organ prolapse, but the typical aim is to improve or maintain pelvic health.

Ben Wa balls are not necessary for doing kegel exercises. Pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises can be performed and prove effective without them. However, they can be used to provide greater resistance or something to focus on while one is doing their kegel exercises. 

Once inserted into the vagina, the vaginal muscles will react naturally to and around the kegel balls. They can be inserted for the duration of one’s exercises or the practitioner can work their way up to wearing them for longer periods of time.

It is recommended to not wear Ben Wa balls for more than four hours, and they should be avoided duing pregnancy as well as during the time when one is healing following childbirth.

Ben Wa Balls as a Sex Toy

Ben Wa balls are often used as a means of increasing sexual satisfaction. The strengthening of the pelvic floor muscles can increase blood flow to the area and enhance sexual arousal, and make for stronger orgasm contractions. Furthermore, Ben Wa balls can be used as a sex toy during masturbation or during partner sex activities. They can be used on their own or in conjunction with other sex toys or sexual stimulation. 

Barring any injuries or doctor recommendations that say otherwise, Ben Wa balls can be used by most people with vaginas. However, they should not be mistaken for anal beads. Without an adequately flared base for protection, they should not be inserted into the anus as the risk of them being sucked into the colon and require medical intervention for removal. Even kegel balls that have a string for easy removal are not considered safe for anal insertion.