I got this message from a Facebook friend: (and have since added a page regarding genital piercings for others: genderqueer, trans, and non gender-binary)

Hey Elayne,
I had a bit of a question. What is your take on ftm genital piercings, before any kind lower surgery? I myself being trans and having a few trans friends. I meant to talk to you about this at conference this year, but didnt. I know a lot of guys who also don't want to come in and ask for a "hood" piercing. I was almost considering figuring out another name for them. Also, do you think Triangle piercings are ok? it seems to me the jewelry would have to be rather large to accommodate the larger anatomy and might possibly interfere when they're erect. I also wanted your opinion on doing post op piercings ftm's and mtf. Really, i think you should just do a big article on transgender genital piercings. : ) Thank you for your time and wisdom.
T.

My reply:

Sorry you didn't get a chance to discuss this with me at conference. It is easier to chat than to do it via message, but I'll do my best.

If surgery is planned, I don't know that piercings make sense--depending on how long-term the plan is. If the surgery is to be years in the future, then maybe it makes sense. You might want to consult with a doctor first to make sure you wouldn't be creating a fistula (with the healed piercing) that could be problematic for the surgery at a later date.

I think it could work to go into a respected studio and simply ask for "genital piercing" and request a consultation for it. Then you'd disclose before the pants come off.

I did a pair of "Princess Dianas" on an FTM guy and we decided those are called "Dukes" when they're on a transguy. Other than that, the names don't strike me as overly feminine. You could go with calling it "foreskin" instead of hood, if you prefer.

As far as triangle piercings go, that's still an issue of individual build. Some guys are built for them and some are not. Simply being large isn't the same as being suited. Yes, the jewelry must be commensurately larger, but the style I use fits well to the body. I open a circular barbell so the part going through the piercing is relatively straight, but the jewelry is not too large to fit between the legs comfortably. I haven't had anyone experience problems with it, and I've done a fair number of transguys.

As far as post-op anatomy, I've got experience only with MTF, and it was no problem. The issues relate to scarring, blood supply, and pliability of tissue. Each person needs to be evaluated individually.

I hope that answers your questions.

Elayne