Needle play is a form of play involving the use of needles to create temporary piercings in the body. Needles can be used as part of S/M play (i.e. to deliver/receive pain), for their aesthetic value or for sensual play. People often use needles to create patterns on the skin and as a form of medical play.

Needle play is practised with caution and requires knowledge about the use of needles, sterilisation, hygiene and safety. It is often considered to be as much of a risk to the top as it is to the bottom due to the risk of blood borne pathogens. Generally, medical needles are used that are categorized by various thicknesses (known as gauges) and lengths. Other piercing objects may also be used such as sterile skin staplers (typically used to close wounds in medical care).