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

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

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 with certain health conditions, and those 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.

The following are some options for people looking for ED rings. 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.

The table below compares each of the ED rings in this article for material, main features, price, and more.

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

Learn more about cock rings.

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

Learn more about penis pumps for ED.

Limited studies have explored rings alone as an ED treatment.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that using an ED ring and a pump is effective and generally safe.

A 2022 case report and literature review also claimed that ED rings could 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.

ED rings are straightforward to use for most people:

1. Use a lubricant to help slide the ring on and off. Make sure the lube is appropriate for the ring material.
2. Gently place the ring over the head of the erect penis and move it down to the base.
3. Take care to avoid snagging the ring on pubic hair.

After use, wash the ring carefully in warm, soapy water and allow it to air dry.

When selecting an ED ring, a person may want to consider:

• The material: This is especially important for people with sensitivities or allergies — for example, latex. A first-time user might try a flexible silicone ring before moving on to a more rigid one. Some materials are easier to clean than others, and customer reviews may provide more detail.
• The fit: A ring should apply just enough pressure to keep blood in the penis without causing pain or damage. If someone is unsure what size to get, an adjustable or flexible silicone ring is a good option.
• Pleasure features: Some ED rings vibrate or have other features that provide penile and clitoral stimulation.

When using an ED ring, there is a risk of:

• pain
• numbness
• a “pins and needles” sensation
• bruising
• swelling

Also, if the ring fits incorrectly or stays on for too long, this can lead to necrosis, which is tissue death. It occurs when new blood-carrying oxygen cannot flow into the penis.

In severe cases, necrosis can lead to gangrene and the need for amputation.

A person can help prevent these issues by:

• using a properly fitting ring
• keeping it on for no longer than 30 minutes
• refraining from falling asleep with the ring in place
• avoiding using an ED ring while using drugs or alcohol
• removing the ring immediately if pain, numbness, or unusual sensations occur
• seeking emergency care if the penis swells and the ring will not come off
• avoiding using metal rings

The study below contains graphic images.

If a person cannot or does not remove their ED ring within 30 minutes, this could cause what doctors refer to as “penile ring entrapment,” or PRE. If this happens, an individual must contact a medical professional immediately to avoid potentially severe complications.

People should speak with a healthcare professional before using an ED ring or any other ED device. These rings may not be suitable for everyone, including people with blood clotting disorders, other blood disorders, or people taking blood-thinning medications.

Learn more about the safety of ED rings.

A person might try any of these other ED treatments:

• Vacuum erection devices: Also known as penis pumps, these draw blood into the penis to cause an erection. Some evidence indicates that efficacy is high for penis pumps — from 70–80% — but user satisfaction varies. Learn more about ED vacuum devices.
• Medications: These improve blood flow to the penis, and some options include tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and sildenafil (Viagra). Up to 76% of people respond well to the oral versions of these drugs. Some injectable forms are also available. Learn more about the most effective pill for ED.
• Lifestyle changes: The following may improve ED:
  • following a healthy, balanced diet
  • exercising regularly
  • limiting alcohol intake
  • maintaining a moderate weight
  • managing stress
  • quitting smoking
• Natural remedies: If a person is taking a medication that can increase the risk of ED, they should speak with a healthcare professional about alternatives. Learn more about natural remedies for ED.
• Penile implants: Having penile implant surgery may help some people with ED, and experts consider it a very successful surgical treatment for ED.
• Counseling: Issues concerning relationships, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can affect the ability to have and maintain an erection. A person might try counseling alone or with a partner in couples counseling. Learn about online therapy.

Some of these approaches might be more effective in combination with an ED ring.

A person might feel embarrassed if they have issues with an ED ring. This should not keep someone from seeking emergency medical care, particularly if they have difficulty removing a ring.

Difficulty having or maintaining an erection can also be challenging to speak about for some people. However, various approaches can help, including lifestyle changes, medications, and devices.

A doctor can help determine whether ED stems from a medical condition, such as:

• type 2 diabetes
• cardiovascular issues
• high blood pressure
• kidney disease
• multiple sclerosis

Also, ED may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. But while ED can be a marker for this disease, there is no direct correlation.

Below, we answer common questions about ED rings.

What does an ED ring do?

An ED ring is a device that may suit individuals who are unable to maintain an erection. They place the ring at the base of their penis so that it adds pressure and cause the blood vessels to tighten.

This slows down circulation allowing the user to keep an erection.

Is there a wearable device for erectile dysfunction?

Many companies stock wearable rings for people with ED. These are reversible, as a person removes the ring after sexual intercourse.

Another option would be to wear a vacuum pump. It has a plastic tube, a pump, and an elastic ring. The ring sits at the base of the penis and prevents blood from flowing back into the body. Users can use it for up to 30 minutes, as using it for longer can cause skin irritation.

Is Eddie by Giddy covered by insurance?

People cannot get insurance coverage when buying the Eddie by Giddy ED ring. However, they can pay using PayPal credit so that they can pay at a later stage. They can also opt for PayPal Pay-in-4, which allows them to pay in four sessions, rather than simultaneously paying for the whole device.

Do ED rings work?

Research is limited, but anecdotal evidence suggests they work for many people with ED. In some form, rings or bands have been used for hundreds of years.

The FDA reports that using an ED ring simultaneously as a vacuum erection device is effective and safe.

How do people use ED tension rings?

A person places the ring at the base of the penis. Depending on the ring type, the penis can be flaccid or erect. The pressure from the ring tightens the veins in the penis.

This keeps blood in the penis, which helps maintain an erection. Some manufacturers say their products do not tighten the arteries, allowing blood to flow into the penis.

A person removes the ring — within 30 minutes — by loosening the band or sliding the ring off. They should then wash and dry the ring carefully and replace it regularly.

Are ED rings safe?

Nonmetal ED rings are usually safe if a person uses them correctly.

People should speak with a healthcare professional about the most appropriate ED treatment, particularly for people with a blood clotting disorder or taking any medication.

A person should remove an ED ring immediately if there is any numbness or pain. An ED ring can get stuck in rare cases, and immediate medical care is necessary.

ED is a common condition, especially among older adults, but it can affect males of any age. Penis rings can help some people maintain an erection, and a person might use them in addition to ED medications, a vacuum pump, or both.

Many types of ED rings are available. People need to consider the flexibility and fit and avoid metal rings.

A person should remove an ED immediately if it causes pain, irritation, or other unusual sensations. They should not leave any ring on for more than 30 minutes.

If ED rings do not work, many other treatments are available. A healthcare professional can recommend an effective approach and rule out underlying health conditions.