Waterboarding

BDSM waterboarding is a practice derived from the controversial interrogation technique that involves the controlled application of water to a person's face to simulate drowning sensations. Most commonly water is poured over a cloth covering the face and breathing passages of an immobilized captive. In BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism), it's considered an extreme form of edge play, where participants explore intense sensations and power dynamics.

Waterboarding

Health risk
Legal risk

Appeal

Some reasons why waterboarding may appeal to a kinky person:

• Power Dynamics: BDSM waterboarding can intensify the power exchange between dominant and submissive partners, heightening the psychological experience.
• Intense Sensations: For some participants, the intense sensations and altered states of consciousness induced by waterboarding can be erotically stimulating.
• Trust and Bonding: Engaging in such extreme forms of play requires a high level of trust and communication between partners, fostering deeper emotional bonds.

Methods

In the most common method of waterboarding, the captive's face is covered with cloth or some other thin material and immobilized on their back at an incline of 10 to 20 degrees.

Risks

• Physical Injury: There's a risk of physical harm, including aspiration of water, lung damage, or injuries due to struggling or panic.
• Psychological Trauma: Even in a consensual context, the experience of simulated drowning can trigger intense fear, anxiety, or trauma, especially for individuals with past traumatic experiences.
• Loss of Control: The loss of control during waterboarding can lead to panic or disorientation, potentially resulting in unintended consequences.

Risk mitigation

• Safety Precautions: Implement safety measures such as using a safe signal (e.g., a safe word or gesture) to immediately stop the activity.
• Skill and Knowledge: The dominant partner should possess adequate skill and knowledge in waterboarding techniques, including understanding the physiology involved and being able to recognize signs of distress.
• Continuous Communication: Maintain open and honest communication before, during, and after the scene to ensure the well-being of the sub.
• Aftercare: Provide thorough aftercare to help the submissive partner process the experience emotionally and ensure their physical well-being.
• Training and Education: Continuously educate oneself about safe BDSM practices, attend workshops, and seek guidance from experienced practitioners or mentors.

Known incidents