Safely Using Clamps
Source: POWERotics Private Dungeon

There are several different types of (nipple) clamps available as well as other items that can be used as clamps. Placing clamps on the nipples will make them more sensitive and cause erotic stimulation. Everyone's nipples are different however, some being extremely sensitive and some hardly sensitive at all. Clamps of course can also be used in other areas, such as on labia.

You should find out for yourself how much stimulation is still fun and how much is too painful or will not work. The general idea - if this is new to you - is to start out with simple things and build up slowly to other things. As a matter of fact, this is the best way to start out with any new activity.

There are no standard rules about how long a clamp can be left on. A rule of thumb is: do not try anything over fifteen minutes at first and never exceed thirty minutes without taking the clamps off, giving the area a rest before (maybe) placing them back on. During pregnancy, nipple and labia sensitivity increases and you may need to switch to lighter clamps and/or a shorter time with longer rest periods. If your sub is breastfeeding, it is best to avoid nipple clamps entirely, as the slightest amount of bruising or swelling can cause milk to back up. This may result in blocked milk ducts and possible mastitis, a breast infection that could require antibiotics and interrupt breastfeeding. Use this unique time for other forms of gentle breast play. (Hint: the same hormone that causes milk to flow is released during orgasm, use your imagination... and no... baby will not mind sharing a bit of milk once in awhile) Other times women may experience increased nipple sensitivity are during their menstrual periods and when their nipples are pierced.

Pulling the clamps, or hanging small weights from them, will stretch the nipple or labia and intensify the effect. Be sure to use clamps with sufficient grip however, as it is extremely painful when a clamp accidentally slides off. Also, be thoughtful about the location you place the clamp. A clamp placed towards the end of the nipple is much more painful than a clamp placed closer to the breast.

There is a book to write about the inside of clamps. The most commonly available clamps (called clover or American clamps) usually will have either cork or latex pads inside that prevent both slipping and damage to the nipples or labia tissue. Most other clamps (and again there are many, form clothespins to alligator clamps - these are small clamps with usually sharp metal teeth inside) however do not have such facilities. Wooden clothespins for example may look harmless, but they usually splinter easily and no matter what the construction of the clamps, you will usually be using them on very sensitive tissue (which is the idea), so extra care is wise.

Nipples are strange things. They are both very sensitive and very strong. They are not easily damaged but if they are, they bleed intensely and take a long time to heal. Plus such accidents are very, very painful. More or less the same applies to labia, although especially their inside is more sensitive and rips more easily.

Advanced players will usually have no problem using clamps with teeth, even in sensitive areas. In the event you are planning to do this, it is wise to "adapt" your clams (something that is a good idea anyway). By dipping your clamps into liquid rubber you will make almost any clamp more suitable for erotic play. It prevents splintering, rust, tissue damage and makes them easier to keep clean. Sanding wooden clamps helps, but for example does not protect against germs and body fluids sucked into the wood.

Another useful precaution in the event you are working with clamps in a sensitive area is to cover the area with a small piece of plastic foil or a small pad, cut out of a latex glove before clamping it.

Clamps with teeth inside (generally known as shark beaks) are a great help for small nipples, since they will prevent them from sliding off. And of course they are more cruel. In the event your sub has small nipples, why not turn to a gay BDSM shop. Male nipples are small and there is an entire range of nipple clamps, especially designed for use on the male nipple. In many occasions - especially if your sub is into more intense pain kicks - these "male" clamps are also very useful for use on the inner labia of in other sensitive areas, such as armpits, earlobes, the nose, lips and the back of the knee.

Whatever the type of clamp: removing them is a LOT more painful than putting them on. The longer the clamp has been left on, the more painful the removal is. Depending on the effect you wish to achieve, you may want to allow your sub to remove the clamps herself, releasing the pressure gradually.