Urethral sounding
| Urethral sounding | |
|---|---|
 A Hegar sound being inserted into a male's urethra | |
| Other names | Sounding, urethral play |
| ICD-9-CM | 58.6 |
| HCPCS-L2 | Image |
Urethral sounding is the practice of inserting objects (typically made from metal or silicone) into the urethra for sexual gratification.[1] Probes called sounds are often used, giving the name.
It resembles urethral dilation, a urological procedure that uses urethral sounds to enlarge the inside diameter of the urethra and locate obstructions in the urethra, or as a treatment for urethral strictures, but is not carried out for medical reasons, nor typically with the same level of safety and hygienic precautions.[2][3]
The insertion of foreign bodies into the urethra can present serious medical problems. If not conducted carefully, sounding carries a risk of irritation, tearing of the urethra, or urinary tract infection.[4][5] Infections may become serious if they progress to the bladder or kidneys.[6]