You can find cock rings in every adult store and in the wellness section of some mainstream supermarkets and pharmacies. These small accessories are almost hidden in plain sight. But when it comes to sex toys and products, they don’t get the spotlight as much as vibrators or dildos. And with National Sex Toy Day happening tomorrow, we want to change that.
- What is a cock ring?
- Benefits of a cock ring
- Different types of cock rings
- How to choose a cock ring
- Risks of a penis ring
- The takeaway
We’ve created a complete guide to cock rings to help you decide if your sex life could benefit from this small (but mighty) device. From the benefits to the risks, this is everything you need before you get started.
Intrigued? Good! Scroll down to start learning.
What is a cock ring?
A cock ring (also known as a penis ring or penile tension ring) is a small, ring-shaped accessory that’s worn around the base of the penis during sexual activity. The ring’s purpose is to restrict blood flow away from the penis, resulting in heightened sexual pleasure, firmer erections, and longer-lasting erections.
Benefits of a cock ring
Experimenting with a penis ring has many benefits for your sexual enjoyment and self-expression. From making sex last longer to improving erections, here are some reasons you might want to explore this sexy accessory:
- Improved erections – Some experience longer-lasting and stronger erections
- Delayed orgasm – Some experience delayed ejaculation, which leads to longer sexual encounters
- Heightened enjoyment – Penis rings can make the penis more sensitive
- Increased penis girth – Due to trapped blood, cock rings can temporarily increase the girth of the penis
- More confidence – Some users feel more confident wearing a penis ring as it improves their performance
- Better orgasms – Users often report more intense orgasms
- Mutual pleasure – A cock ring can also increase satisfaction for your partner due to longer sex and increased girth
- Exploration – Using a cock ring allows you to experiment more in the bedroom
- Erectile dysfunction assistance – Some research shows penis rings can help with ED
Penis rings for improved erections and erectile dysfunction
While cock rings are widely used for pleasure and greater sexual satisfaction, they’re also used for erectile dysfunction. When combined with a vacuum pump, a penis ring can improve erections and manage the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
These effects happen because the ring applies pressure when applied, which squeezes the blood vessels around the penis. This keeps the blood in the penis and helps the user maintain a firmer erection for longer
However, there’s no evidence that cock rings improve erections for everyone with ED. When in doubt, work with a medical professional to find care suited to your body.
Different types of cock rings
Did you know there are different types of cock rings? Penis rings come in different types to provide different sensations. Before you dive in and purchase one, make sure you know which is best for you.
Penis ring
The penis ring is what is most associated with the term cock ring. This only goes around the penis to increase pleasure and delay orgasm. A penis ring can help erectile dysfunction, but only when combined with other treatments.
Testicle ring
A testicle ring fits around the testicles and doesn’t go on the penis at all. Like a penis ring, this increases pleasure and delays orgasm. However, there’s no evidence that this type of ring helps with erectile dysfunction.
Penoscrotal ring
A penoscrotal ring goes around the base of the penis and the testicles, providing double the stimulation. This ring type also delays orgasm and increases pleasure, but only one case study has linked it to helping erectile dysfunction.
Different materials
Alongside coming in different shapes and sizes, penis rings are also available in a plethora of materials.
Popular materials include:
- Metal – These usually include extra padding to protect the skin
- Leather – These come with adjustable fastenings for removal
- Silicone – These are stretchy and adjustable
- Rubber – These are flexible and come in different sizes to prevent them from slipping off
How to choose a cock ring
Choosing a cock ring is an exciting process. But you must spend a few moments considering what’s best for your body.
When selecting a cock ring, the two main elements to consider include how well it fits and the type of material it’s made from. For example, those with latex allergies should look for latex alternatives. In terms of fit, you want enough pressure to get the desirable effect, but you don’t want any pain. Look for an adjustable ring that applies pressure without being uncomfortable.
Don’t forget to read the instructions on the packaging when you purchase a ring. These will tell you how to put it on, take it off, and how to use it safely.
Risks of a penis ring
Knowing the risks associated with penis rings is crucial to making an informed decision.
While these sex accessories are designed for safe use, they do come with a risk of damage to the penis. If your penis becomes numb, experiences pins and needles, or starts bulging, swelling, or discolours, remove the penis ring, and seek medical advice.
You can avoid damage by choosing a well-fitted penis ring that doesn’t hurt. You should also never use it for more than 30 minutes at a time.
If you can’t remove the ring, go to your closest emergency room immediately. When a penis ring gets stuck, you risk losing blood supply to the penis, gangrene, and entrapment. Don’t worry. This is rare, and only usually occurs when you pick a ring that’s too tight. Start off with the flexible rings.
The takeaway
Cock rings are a great way to try something new in the bedroom. With the potential for better sex and stronger erections, it’s no surprise these rings are a staple for couples worldwide. Whether you’re preparing to use a penis ring or are simply curious about what they are, we hope this article has taught you something new.
Want to explore more sex and relationship content? Check out the Vivastreet blog here.
