12 Reasons Why Females Get Tongue Piercings

Find out why some women choose to get tongue piercings

Co-authored by Stephanie Anders and Raven Minyard, BA

Last Updated: February 12, 2024 Fact Checked

While tongue piercings have been around for centuries, they’ve only recently begun gaining mainstream popularity in Western society. As they become less taboo, more and more women are getting tongue piercings for a variety of reasons. From boosting self-confidence to enhancing sexual pleasure, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about why females get tongue piercings.

Things You Should Know

Many women get tongue piercings to express themselves. They like the way the piercings look and feel confident wearing them.
Some women get tongue piercings to enhance sexual pleasure and to show sex positivity.
Women may get tongue piercings to rebel against societal expectations and conformity.

1

For decoration

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Many women get tongue piercings simply because they like them. There isn’t always a specific reason someone gets a piercing. In many cases, women like the way tongue piercings look and want to have one themselves. Some even consider piercings to be an art form.^{[1]
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2

To follow fashion trends

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Piercings have gained mainstream popularity, so more women want them. Over recent years, mainstream Western society has become more accepting of body modification than in the past. Some women have begun getting tongue piercings because they see other women and celebrities who have them, and they want to join in.^{[2]
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3

To stand out

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Some pierce their tongues to get attention—in a good way. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be noticed, and having piercings in places other than the earlobes is a great way to do that. Having a tongue piercing can be a great conversation starter!

4

To show rebellion or nonconformity

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Some women get tongue piercings to show they won’t conform to society. While mainstream society has become more accepting of piercings than it used to be, some piercings are still considered taboo. A woman may get her tongue pierced to break societal expectations and rules.

5

For cultural or religious reasons

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Women may get tongue piercings to connect with their culture. Tongue piercings (and piercings in general) have a long history with religions and cultures across the world. For example, the Hindu goddess Lakshmi has tongue piercings, so some Hindu women may get a piercing to honor her. Many Native American tribes have practiced piercing for centuries, as well.^{[3]
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6

For self-expression

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Tongue piercings allow women to embrace and show off their individuality. Everyone wants to be able to express themselves, and piercings have a long connection with fashion and music subcultures and even political stances. A woman may pierce her tongue to physically express her personality and connect with like-minded people.^{[4]
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7

For sexual pleasure and expression

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Tongue piercings can enhance pleasure during oral sex. Some women choose to get their tongue pierced to provide a new and exciting experience for their sexual partner. Tongue piercings can also be a sign of sex positivity.^{[5]
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8

To commemorate something or someone

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Some women pierce their tongues to celebrate something special. They may get a tongue piercing to honor a deceased loved one who always wanted a piercing, or they may get one with a group of friends to remember the time they spent together. Getting a piercing can be a permanent reminder of something important.

9

To boost confidence

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Some women get tongue piercings to feel better about themselves. As the saying goes, when you look good, you feel good. Tongue piercings can be a bold (and painful) statement that empowers women to trust themselves and make important decisions.

10

To be discreet

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Tongue piercings are less noticeable than other piercings. If a woman wants a piercing but can’t have or doesn’t want an obvious one, she might choose a tongue piercing because they’re easy to hide.
- Pro tip: for a more hidden option, professional piercer Stephanie Anders recommends a clear retainer. A retainer is a “clear piece of jewelry that can be worn that would be more hidden.” She suggests “something that’s made out of quartz or glass” rather than plastic “because plastic is porous.”

11

For emotional healing

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Some women get tongue piercings to take control of their bodies. Sometimes, people get body modifications after struggling with mental or physical illnesses or dealing with a traumatic situation. Getting a tongue piercing can give women a sense of control and security and remind them that they’re strong and capable of getting through tough situations.^{[6]
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12

For a quick healing time

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Tongue piercings typically heal faster than other piercings. If a woman wants to get a piercing but doesn’t want to deal with a long healing process, she might get a tongue piercing. If the piercing is properly cared for, the healing process generally takes about 3-4 weeks.^{[7]
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- Pro tip: professional piercer Sasha Blue says “drinking cold water and/or eating ice chips helps bring down the swelling” in oral piercings.