Be extra careful when shaving your testicles (balls). While you won’t get quite as close a shave, there’s less risk of nicking yourself if you use an electric razor or clippers. Alternatively, you could give yourself a wax, which is a bit more painful, but less likely to cause accidental cuts or scrapes. To minimize irritation, don’t put tape on freshly shaved skin. Shave 1-2 days before you plan to tuck. [3] X Research source
You can also use skin-friendly fashion tape (like the kind designed to lift breasts or hold swimwear in place) or a prefab tape tuck kit.
It can help to take a cool bath or shower first, since this will cause your testicles to naturally retract a bit. If you experience pain or nausea, stop. Try again later, or skip pushing up your testicles altogether. As an alternative, gently push them out to either side so your penis can nestle in between them. [6] X Research source
It’s normal to get aroused while you’re doing this, but you won’t be able to tuck while your penis is erect. If it happens, take a break and wait for the feeling to pass. Then, try again. [8] X Research source
The tape should be tight enough to securely hold your tuck, but not so tight that you’re in pain. You might need to practice a bit to get the right level of tightness so that your tuck is both comfortable and secure. [12] X Research source If you’re sweating, pat your skin dry with a clean, dry towel before you apply the tape. That will help it stick better. [13] X Research source If you want a little extra reinforcement, run another strip of tape around the underside of each butt cheek to your hip on both sides.
For an extra-smooth tuck, go for a bottom that’s a little tight. Thick bikini bottoms made from compression material, such as Lycra or spandex, work great for this purpose.
If you’re worried about the gaff showing under your swimsuit, pick one that’s thong-shaped or specially designed for use with swimwear, like the Lili Gaff. [16] X Research source In a pinch, a regular tight thong made of thick material will work as a basic gaff.
For extra security, some people prefer to tape first before putting on a gaff. However, you may find that doing just one or the other is enough.
If anything hurts, undo the tuck and try again. A little discomfort is normal, but your tuck shouldn’t be painful!
You can also find trans-friendly swimwear on sites like Etsy. Much like a gaff, these suits are typically designed with thick, stretchy material that will smooth out your crotch area and help you keep your tucked genitals in place.
Alternatively, try layering 2 snug swimsuit bottoms. [22] X Research source For instance, you could put on a thong bikini bottom under a swimsuit with more coverage. To tuck, lie down on your back with your swimsuit bottom pulled up to your knees. If you like, very gently guide your testicles into the inguinal canals (a pair of holes or “sockets” in your lower abdomen, behind your pubic bone), or just move them to either side of your penis. Pull your penis back between your legs and hold it in place. Once you’re tucked, pull your swimsuit bottom up with your free hand.
You can also throw some denim cutoffs on over your swimsuit bottom for a cute and stylish look!
Once you’ve tucked, you’ll need to untuck before you can pee again.
Don’t forget to bring a towel, too! If you’ve been swimming, you’ll need to dry off before you reapply the tape.
Taping is also more likely to cause irritation and pain than other tucking methods, so you might want a gentler option for long-term wear.
Doctors recommend going at least once every 3 hours to keep your bladder healthy. [26] X Research source If you don’t feel safe or comfortable using the bathrooms wherever you’re swimming, it might help to ask a supportive friend to go with you. [27] X Research source You can also use apps like Refuge Restrooms, Loo Locator, or Gender Neutral Toilet Finder to help you find the nearest gender-inclusive restroom.
It’s especially important to stay hydrated if you’re going to be basking on a sunny beach!
Most UTIs clear up quickly with a short course of antibiotics. If you have symptoms of a UTI, don’t wait to get help. If you go too long without treatment, the infection could get more serious or become chronic.
