Ben Wa balls are small round balls that are used for strengthening the vaginal walls and pelvic floor. These balls are generally hollow and contain a small weight inside. Using lubrication, the Ben Wa balls are inserted into the vagina and held there from anywhere from one minute up to an entire day.
Ben Wa balls are also known as Geisha balls, Burmese bells, Benoit balls, orgasm balls, Venus balls, love balls, Kegel balls, pleasure balls, Kegel spheres, or rin no tama.
Example of stainless steel Ben Wa balls. Pictured: Sportsheets 100% Stainless Steel Ben Wa Balls.
Ben Wa balls have been around for centuries and originated in Japan. They were referred to as rin no tama (tinkling balls). The traditional Ben Wa balls are marble-sized metal balls that are not attached and float freely within the vagina. In order to extract the balls, the wearer must push them out with their Kegel muscles, jump up and down, sneeze or cough. These balls can also be worn during intercourse to stimulate both partners.
Many variations made of silicone or latex have recently become available. In these newer versions, the balls tend to be attached and may have a string that hangs down for removal much like a tampon. Sizes also vary from marble-sized to as large as an apricot. These larger balls are sometimes called Duotone balls.
Using Ben Wa balls for sexual stimulation generally does not lead to orgasm, but if worn for a longer period of time, the wearer can become aroused. Gynecologists and obstetricians often recommend these balls as a way to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
