It’ll be easier to remove the tape if you’ve shaved your pubic hair. Shave at least 1 or 2 days prior to tucking and taping. Do not tape freshly shaved skin. If necessary, carefully pre-trim pubic hair with an electric trimmer.
Pulling the external genitals between your legs is the simplest method, but it may not yield the flattest appearance. To obscure them more thoroughly, some people prefer to tuck the testes up into the pelvic floor.
Taking a cold bath or shower before tucking may make the process easier. The testes naturally ascend toward the inguinal canals when they’re exposed to cold temperatures. [4] X Research source Note that tucking the testes into the inguinal canals for prolonged periods can raise their temperature, which may lead to fertility issues. [5] X Research source You may not need to use tape to tuck–that’s up to you![6] X Research source
Tucking the penis back toward the anus can lead to infection. Covering the tip of the penis helps prevent germs from entering the opening of the urethra. It’s also wise to regularly apply antifungal powder to the area to prevent infections and odor.
While holding your tucked external genitals in place, check the skin for paleness or bluish or purple discoloration. If you experience numbness, throbbing, and discoloration, you may have cut off circulation and should untuck your genitals.
Do not use duct, scotch, or any tape other than medical tape. Other types of tape can damage your skin. Make sure the area is dry before you start tucking so the medical tape adheres. If you sweat during the process, pat the area dry with a towel. [10] X Research source
Alternatively, if your hips will be visible, run tape from your pelvic floor to your tailbone. Make sure everything stays in place, then promptly put on underwear or a gaff. You may find it helpful to put on your undergarments and keep them around your knees or shins while you tuck and tape.
After removing the tape, allow your external genitals to return to their normal position. Then wash the area well, as dampness that collects beneath the tape promotes germs and odor. You may have to guide the testicles back out of the inguinal canals with your fingers.
If you don’t have immediate access to a gender-affirming healthcare provider, look online to find a local transgender resource center.
Bikini swimsuit bottoms are popular alternatives to tape in the drag community. They’re usually made of tightly woven spandex, which is better because natural fibers like cotton or silk can be “slippery” and cause things to move out of place. [15] X Research source Play around with combinations of underwear and shapewear until you’ve achieved your desired results. Keep in mind your undergarments shouldn’t cause pain or cut off your circulation. It’s possible to position and tape your body parts in a way that allows you to use the restroom. However, when it comes to going to the bathroom, wearing undergarments is more convenient than taping.
While gaffs are an effective option, many people find them too uncomfortable to wear every day. Additionally, they tend to be a lot more expensive than regular underwear. [17] X Research source
Apply a little body powder or anti-chafing cream into your thigh and genital creases to prevent chafing. [20] X Research source
Look out for yourself by staying hydrated and untucking when you do need to pee. [22] X Research source
