Everything you need to know about cock rings

It is waterproof, making it suitable for use in the bath or shower.

What Are Cock Rings?

Cock rings are rings that go around the penis and/or scrotum. They slow blood flow out of an erect penis and can help make erections harder and longer-lasting. Some may also have little vibrators to increase pleasure for you and your partner.

Cock rings are also known as penis rings, tension rings, and constriction rings. They may also be marketed as erectile dysfunction (ED) rings, but people without this condition may want to use them, too.

There are several different kinds:

Soft and stretchy rings. These are the most common and generally the cheapest rings available. They are circles of a soft material, often silicone. They’re easy to use and remove. It may take some trial and error to find the right fit.

Adjustable cock rings. These use lasso adjusters, velcro, or other fasteners to allow the wearer to adjust the fit as needed.

Once you do get to see the doctor, don’t be surprised if you’re rushed out of the exam room before you get all of your questions answered, according to healthcare staffing agency Staff Care. Studies show that 41% of ophthalmologists spend just 9 to 12 minutes with a patient, and 13- to 16-minute appointments are the norm for 40% of cardiologists, 37% of pediatricians, 35% of urologists, 35% of family physicians, 34% of obstetricians and gynecologists and 30% of otolaryngologists.

Vibrating cock rings. These have a small vibrator attached. The sensation may feel good for men, but these are generally designed to stimulate a woman’s clitoris during sex.

Solid cock rings. These rings are only for very experienced users. Even then, you may want to avoid them. There is a danger of penis strangulation with metal cock rings that fit poorly, get stuck, or are left on too long.

Why People Like Them

Cock rings make sex more intense and last longer. Specific benefits include:

• A delayed and more intense orgasm
• Boosted confidence in your erection and sexual performance
• Help keeping an erection
• Added sensation for you and your partner

Myths About Cock Rings

There are a few common misconceptions about cock rings:

They’re Only for Older Men with Erectile Dysfunction

Not at all. People with no medical issues use cock rings. They may want the erection to last longer, increase sensitivity, or add a new element such as vibration or texture for their partner.

They Can Be Used as Contraception

No. Cock rings cannot help you avoid pregnancy in any way.

They Hurt

When you use them correctly, cock rings should not cause pain. The new sensation may take some getting used to, but if it hurts, remove the ring right away. It may be a symptom of something else or simply an indication that you need a different size or style of ring.

How to Try Cock Rings Safely

Pick a beginner-friendly ring, something soft, stretchy, and easy to remove. Use the least constrictive size that still stays on and helps maintain your erection.

Psychologist and sex expert Antonia Hall, in an interview with Cosmopolitan magazine, recommends putting the ring on while the penis is flaccid or only semi-erect. Use lubricant to make it easier to slide the ring on, and then continue stimulating the penis until it’s erect.

If you want to wear your ring over your testicles, Hall suggests sliding them in one at a time. Remember: the fit should be snug but not uncomfortable.

For Erectile Dysfunction

The best way to use a cock ring to help with ED will depend on your specific problem.

If you can get an erection but have trouble keeping it, you can try the cock ring by itself. If you struggle to become erect, you may want to use your ring with a penis pump.

After pulling blood into your penis with the pump, slip your ring around the base of your penis before you remove the pump. The erection should last long enough for sex. A little light bruising afterward is normal.

Safety Measures

Because cock rings restrict blood flow, it’s important not to wear one for longer than 20 minutes. Start by wearing one for just 5 minutes at a time to give yourself time to get used to the feeling. If you feel discomfort, take it off immediately.

If you’re using the cock ring as a sex aid for erectile dysfunction, make sure that you’ve talked to a doctor about your symptoms. There are many health conditions that can cause ED or make it worse, including heart disease, diabetes, alcohol problems, and mental health issues. It’s important to get help for those conditions and not use a sex toy to mask the symptoms.

Also, consult a doctor before use if you are on blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder.

Do not fall asleep while using the ring, and don’t use it while you’re impaired by drugs or alcohol. It could lead to potential injury.

Allow at least 60 minutes between uses.

Care and Cleaning

Remember that sex toys can transmit STIs. You may also risk other kinds of infection if you don’t clean them properly.

For most toys, water and a mild dish soap or antibacterial hand soap should do the trick. If your device vibrates or otherwise uses power, you may not want to submerge it in water, but make sure you get it fully clean with soap and a damp cloth.

For further instructions, refer to the directions on your sex toy’s label. At the very least, it should list the material, which may require special care.

Show Sources

Cosmopolitan: “Can You Use Cock Rings for Stronger Orgasms?”

Food and Drug Administration: Center for Devices and Radiological Health: “Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: External Penile Rigidity Devices.”

Journal of Pharmacy: “Successful Removal of Metal Rings Causing Penile Strangulation.”

Mayo Clinic: “Erectile dysfunction: Nonoral treatments.”

Men’s Health: “How Penis Rings Can Help You Have Better Sex.”

Planned Parenthood: “Sex Toys.”

Self: “How to Clean Your Sex Toys So You Can Use Them Safely.”

Everything you need to know about cock rings

A cock ring is a ring-shaped sex toy that goes around the base of a penis, dildo, or butt plug. There is also a type of cock ring called a penoscrotal ring, which can go around the penis and testicles.

In this article, we explore why people may use a cock ring, how to use one, and safety tips to consider.

A cock ring is a circular sex toy that can go on the base of the penis or on a dildo or butt plug. Alternatively, a penoscrotal ring can go around the base of the penis and the testicles. Other names for a cock ring are:

• penis ring
• constriction band
• tension ring

A penis becomes erect when chemical messages from the brain cause the arteries in the penis to relax, letting blood flow into it. A cock ring applies pressure to the penis and surrounding areas to trap the blood in the penis for longer. In this way, it helps the penis become firmer and the erection last longer.

A person may consider using a cock ring for various reasons. Some of these include:

• Greater stamina: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that a cock ring may help increase sexual stamina. However, an older study looking at males who had premature ejaculation found that using a cock ring did not improve this sexual dysfunction.
• Erectile dysfunction: For people who can achieve an erection but have difficulty maintaining one, a cock ring may help. A cock ring traps the blood inside the penis, which can help keep it harder for longer. In cases where a person is unable to achieve an erection, they may pair a cock ring with a penis vacuum, also known as a penis pump.
• More stimulation for all parties: Some cock rings may also contain one or two small vibrating devices. As well as being pleasurable for the person wearing the cock ring, these devices can also stimulate their partner or partners.
• Increased sensation: Wearing a cock ring may increase the sensation in the penis, leading to a more pleasurable experience.

A cock ring can enhance masturbation, as well as vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

The sexual benefits of wearing a cock ring may vary depending on the type of activity in which a person is engaging.

If a person is using a cock ring on their penis or that of their partner, it is important that they apply lubrication and that the cock ring fits.

A person should put the cock ring on the penis when it is erect. However, a penoscrotal ring can go over a flaccid penis. A person may then engage in the following activities:

• vaginal sex
• anal sex
• oral sex
• masturbation

Some cock rings come with a vibrator on the top. People can use this during vaginal sex for clitoral stimulation. The vibrations may also enhance the experience of anal sex.

Other cock rings have a vibrator on the top and the bottom, which may enhance the sexual experience of all participants.

Sex toys

A person may consider using a vibrating cock ring alongside other sex toys, such as a dildo or butt plug. This combination can be pleasurable for masturbation or to use on a consenting partner.

Although it is usually safe to use a cock ring, a person may wish to consider certain factors prior to using one.

Lubrication

To avoid uncomfortable friction, it is necessary to lubricate the cock ring before placing it on the penis.

Materials

Cock rings typically consist of silicone, rubber, plastic, leather, or metal. If a person is new to using a cock ring, a more flexible material may be preferable.

Size

Cock rings come in varying sizes. Usually, the product will list the diameter of the ring. A person should select one that fits comfortably without excessively restricting blood flow. Alternatively, they can consider a cock ring made from more flexible material to fit the penis better.

Duration of use

It is best only to use a cock ring for a maximum of 30 minutes at a time and to wait 1 hour between uses. A person should always remove the cock ring before going to sleep.

A case study of a man who allegedly forgot to remove a metallic cock ring before going to bed notes excessive swelling of his penis, alongside tissue cell damage. Medical staff had to remove the cock ring by cutting it with a ring cutter.

Hygiene

As with any sex toy, a person should wash the cock ring after each use to get rid of any bacteria.

A cock ring is a ring-shaped sex toy that goes around the base of a penis or dildo. There are also cock rings that can go over the penis and testicles.

Some people may try a cock ring to help with erectile dysfunction or increase sexual satisfaction for themselves and their partners.

When placing a cock ring on a penis, it is important that it fits well and is well-lubricated. A person should avoid wearing a cock ring for more than 30 minutes, as this may cause penile strangulation.

Last medically reviewed on July 30, 2020

• Men’s Health
• Erectile Dysfunction / Premature Ejaculation
• Sexual Health / STDs
• Cat 1
• piercingandtattoos

How we reviewed this article:

Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Hosseini, S. R. (2007). Does a constriction ring alter ejaculation latency?
  https://bjui-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2007.07004.x
• How to use a cock ring during sex. (n.d.).
  https://www.durex.co.uk/blogs/explore-sex/how-to-use-a-cock-ring-with-a-condom
• Kumar, A., et al. (2017). Penile strangulation by metallic ring: A case report.
  http://www.surgeryscience.com/articles/3/1-1-13-775.pdf
• Low, L. S., & Holmes, M. (2018). The GEM ring cutter: An effective, simple treatment of penile strangulation caused by metal rings.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5991319/
• Purnell, S., et al. (2016). Successful removal of metal rings causing penile strangulation.
  https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Stephanie_Purnell/publication/305659301_Successful_Removal_of_Metal_Rings_Causing_Penile_Strangulation/links/5798a7c308aeb0ffcd08b156.pdf
• Saadat, S. H. (2015). Erectile dysfunction: An update review.
  http://www.ijmedrev.com/article_68263_be7236a38fca2ecb185843e76d8d7d91.pdf
• Wood, J., et al. (2017). A cross-sectional survey of sex toy use, characteristics of sex toy use hygiene behaviours, and vulvovaginal health outcomes in Canada.
  https://www.utpjournals.press/doi/full/10.3138/cjhs.2017-0016

Do ED rings work? How to use, options, and FAQs

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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

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Erectile dysfunction (ED) rings are bands that fit around the base of the penis and help maintain an erection by slowing blood flow from the penis. Research shows that ED rings can work effectively in many cases.

This article contains studies showing images of injury and surgical processes.

ED can develop at any age. A 2022 article estimates that around 52% of men in the United States aged between 40 and 70 years have ED. Worldwide, there are at least 150 million males living with ED. It is more common in older adults, those who have certain health conditions, and people who are taking certain medications.

ED can have a significant effect on mood, self-esteem, and relationships. An ED ring may be an inexpensive, effective solution for some people.

This article describes how these rings work and lists some of the best options a person can consider online. It also discusses alternative treatments for ED, when to see a doctor, and answers some frequently asked questions.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

A quick look at the best ED rings

• Best for easy application:Firmtech Performance Ring
• Best for a range of sizes:Eddie by Giddy
• Best for use with a vacuum pump:Osbon Erecaid Tension Ring
• Best for an affordable ring:Durex Pleasure Ring
• Best for stimulating a partner:Lovense Diamo Vibrating Penis Ring
• Bestvibrating ring:Je Joue Mio Silicone Vibrating Cock Ring

ED occurs when blood flows out of the penis too quickly for the person to have or maintain an erection.

An ED ring fits around the base of the penis, applying pressure to the area. Some also have a second ring — a penoscrotal ring — that fits around the testicles. ED rings can also have features that stimulate partners with a clitoris.

Putting an ED ring on the penis increases pressure, which causes the blood vessels to tighten, slowing blood flow away from the penis. This helps the penis stay erect for longer.

ED rings usually consist of rubber, plastic, or silicone. Some are metal, but the reduced flexibility can increase the risk of complications, so a person should avoid metal rings.

Other names for ED rings include:

• cock rings
• constriction bands
• penis rings
• tension bands
• tension rings

Penis rings are an essential part of vacuum therapy systems, also known as penis pumps. A pump helps a person have an erection, while a ring helps maintain one.

Limited studies have explored rings alone as an ED treatment.

The Urology Care Foundation (UCF) reports that using an ED ring and a pump is effective and safe.

A 2022 case report and literature review also claimed that ED rings can be effective in improving ED and other sexual health issues, such as climacturia, which is when a person leaks urine as they ejaculate.

However, the case report notes the dangers of using metal penis rings, which can cause severe health complications if they become stuck.

If a person gets their penis stuck in an ED ring, they should seek immediate medical assistance.

ED rings work best for people with ED who can get an erection but not maintain it. However, they do not work for everyone.

How we chose

Medical News Today chooses ED products that meet the following criteria:

• Company reputation:MNT selects products from brands that have undergone internal vetting of medical and business standards. The brands are reputable and reliable, with positive reviews and transparent business practices.
• Product transparency:MNT chooses products that clearly state the materials, directions for use, and potential side effects.
• Safety:MNT selects products made from safe materials and available in appropriate sizes.
• Price:MNT chooses products that suit a range of budgets.

For people looking for ED rings, the following are some options to consider. A doctor can also describe the best approach to ED treatment and provide further advice if they decide an ED ring is not right for them.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Best for easy application: Firmtech Performance Ring

• Price: around $65
• Materials: proprietary elastomer
• Sizes: one size, dimensions not stated

This ED ring is reportedly easy to take on and off. The company states that a person can comfortably put on this ring with an erection.

It uses a “latch-and-loop” design that requires an individual to loop a band around the testicles and attach it to the main body of the ring around the penis. Firmtech writes that it tightens comfortably and does not pinch.

The company states it slows the blood flow leaving the penis, prolonging erections and delaying orgasm.

It consists of a soft, proprietary elastomer material. Although Firmtech does not say exactly which material it uses for this ring, it advises that a person should not use a silicone-based sanitizer to clean the ring.

The company states this ED device has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) registration.

This ED ring may be more suitable for people who are new to using ED rings or those who may find them difficult to put on.

The limited reviews on the company website state the ring improved people’s sex lives and is comfortable to wear. However, the company does not list negative reviews.

Pros

• made from soft material
• easy to put on
• users can put it on a flaccid or erect penis

Cons

• company does not provide information on its specific materials
• one size
• very visible on lighter skin tones

Best for a range of sizes: Eddie by Giddy

• Price:$188 for a 4-month supply
• Materials: polycarbonate alloy and a proprietary thermoplastic elastomer
• Sizes: from 3.7–4.8 centimeters (cm) wide on the interior

The company says that this ED ring provides optimal levels of tension and stimulation. It is available in four sizes, and the company offers free resizes to help people find the right fit. However, it is not adjustable.

The sizes include:

• A: 3.7 cm wide on the interior, 5 cm wide on the exterior, and 4.9 cm in height.
• B: 4.1 cm wide on the interior, 5.3 cm wide on the exterior, and 5.2 cm in height.
• C: 4.4 cm wide on the interior, 5.7 cm wide on the exterior, and 5.5 cm in height.
• D: 4.8 cm wide on the interior, 6.1 cm wide on the exterior, and 5.8 cm in height.

A person should measure the girth of their penis to find the right size.

To use it, a person places this horseshoe-shaped ring at the base of the penis, in front of the testicles, and wraps a tension band around the end.

The company states it makes this ring with medical-grade materials and without latex.

It sells the Eddie ring in 4-month supplies, which includes one ring and six tension bands in two levels of intensity. A personalized ED guide video and other content from Giddy also come in the pack.

The company also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Positive reviews write that the ring worked to enhance and prolong erections and that the customer service team helped buyers find the right size.

However, some buyers found the ring difficult to take off, and others would appreciate more sizes for the tension bands. Additionally, this product is only available on a subscription, which may not be suitable for those wanting to try an ED ring for the first time.

Pros

• comes in a range of sizes
• free shipping
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• FDA registration

Cons

• expensive
• requires a subscription
• must be replaced every 4 months
• no independent and blind clinical studies to support its effectiveness
• the clinical study did not test against placebos

This product may be ideal for those who are unsure which size they will need. The company’s policies allow individuals to test different products and sizes to determine their comfort.

Best for use with a vacuum pump: Osbon Erecaid Tension Ring

• Price: from around $19–40
• Materials: proprietary gel
• Sizes: two diameters, four tensions

The brand makes this tension ring from a latex-free gel. It has bumps that apply pressure to veins in the penis and a notch that the company claims aids ejaculation.

The manufacturer says it is comfortable, safe, and effective. However, it is not adjustable.

To get the right size, a person needs to measure the diameter of their penis and work their way down the sizes until they find one that provides enough tension for them to maintain an erection.

The rings come in medium or large, and the different colors denote the different levels of tension the ring provides.

The sizes are as follows:

• Pink: This ring is high tension and comes in a 19 or 22-millimeter (mm) diameter. The company calls the 19 mm ring a medium and the 22 mm ring a large.
• Beige: This ring is standard tension and is available in 19 or 22 mm diameter.
• Gray: This ring is low tension and comes in 19 or 22 mm diameter.

A person can use the ring on its own or in various combinations, even with a vacuum pump. As such, it may be a suitable choice for people with moderate to potent ED when combining it with other products or medications.

The rings cost $40 individually, but a pack of four costs between $19 and $22.

Positive online reviews write that the ring is effective and comfortable to wear.

More critical reviews state that buyers found it difficult to find the right size, it was an expensive purchase for one ring, and others claimed they lose their tension over time.

Pros

• four different sizes
• compatible with ED vacuum pumps

Cons

• not adjustable
• sizing scale can be confusing
• no free shipping
• no returns are possible
• does not provide rings in darker skin tones
• may lose tension over time

Best for an affordable ring: Durex Pleasure Ring

Durex describes this ED ring as soft, stretchy, and discreet. It claims it can make erections firmer and last longer.

It is waterproof, making it suitable for use in the bath or shower.

The company writes a person can use natural rubber latex condoms with this ring, and several Durex lubes and gels are also compatible with the ring.

This ED ring is suitable for people looking for a low cost solution.

Positive reviews mention that it is comfortable and effective, and customers appreciate the soft and flexible material.

More negative reviews write that it did not considerably prolong erections.

Pros

• waterproof
• suitable for use with condoms
• discreet design
• soft and flexible material
• affordable

Cons

• users must replace it after six uses
• one size
• some did not find it effective for prolonging erections

Best for stimulating a partner: Lovense Diamo Vibrating Penis Ring

This ED ring can pleasure both partners due to its vibrating feature. It uses Bluetooth to control the vibration strength. A person must have the accompanying app to use the ring. It is compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows OS. The app also allows people to play music.

It consists of silicone, and a person can wear it in four different ways. It aims to make erections last longer and delay orgasm. Both partners will be able to feel the vibrations, making this a suitable ED ring for stimulating a partner. The app also allows for remote control, so this ring is also suitable for people in long-distance relationships.

The manufacturer states this ring is waterproof.

Positive reviews write that it is effective and the vibrations are suitably strong.

Pros

• waterproof
• 1-year guarantee
• comes with a control app

Cons

Best vibrating ring: Je Joue Mio Silicone Vibrating Cock Ring

This ED also features vibration. The company writes that the vibrations travel along the penis, and the ring can stimulate a partner who has a clitoris. It uses ultra-low frequency vibrations that Je Joue claims can access “internal pleasure points.”

It features five vibration speeds and seven vibration patterns. The company claims it operates quietly and is waterproof, so a person can use it in the bath or shower.

Je Joue writes that this ring can stretch to fit people of all sizes. It aims to make erections harder, last longer, and delay orgasm.

This ED ring is best for people who want a vibrating ring with a range of vibration options.

Positive reviews mention that it is durable and the vibrations are pleasurable.

However, some customers note that the vibrations are stronger for the partner compared to the wearer. Some people also found the buttons difficult to operate.

Pros

• low-frequency vibrations reportedly travel deeper into the body
• several vibration speeds and patterns
• quiet operation
• waterproof

Cons

• one size
• expensive
• users mention it may stimulate their partner more than the wearer