A cock ring is a sex toy with a circular shape, which fits snugly around the penis. They are usually safe if people use them correctly.

A cock ring can also fit around other sex toys, such as dildos or butt plugs. It is sometimes called a penis ring, tension ring, or constriction band.

Some cock rings also fit around the testicles. These types of sex toys are called penoscrotal rings.

A penis becomes erect as the arteries relax and blood flows to the area. Through the use of a cock ring, a person can extend their erection for longer. The constricting ring traps blood in the penis, allowing for a more prolonged erection.

This article answers frequently asked questions about cock rings. It also explores the benefits, risks, and precautions to consider when people use these sex toys.

close up of a cock ring which it is safe to use under the right circumstancesShare on Pinterest
Cock rings are safe if people use them correctly.
Image credit: Audrius Merfeldas / Shutterstock.

This section answers frequently asked questions about cock rings, and addresses common myths.

Will it hurt?

Wearing a cock ring should not hurt. If there is any pain or discomfort, or if the penis becomes cold or numb, a person should remove it right away.

Will it get stuck?

It is possible for a cock ring to get stuck, which is known as penile strangulation. This is a rare medical emergency.

Below, there is more information on what to do if a cock ring gets stuck.

Is it only for erectile dysfunction?

No. While cock rings may help with erectile dysfunction (ED), they may also enhance sexual pleasure.

How long should it be worn?

A person should not wear a cock ring for more than 30 minutes.

Can it prevent pregnancy?

No. A cock ring is not a contraceptive device.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommend these devices include a warning label to indicate when people should not use a cock ring.

For example, if a person has symptoms of ED, they should consult their doctor before they use a cock ring. This is to prevent a delay in diagnosing the cause of ED.

Common reasons why ED occurs include:

  • diabetes
  • multiple sclerosis
  • cirrhosis of the liver
  • kidney failure
  • alcoholism

The FDA also recommend that people with limited sensation in the groin area do not use cock rings. This is because if they cannot feel pain, they may not know if the device is causing injury.

People with weakness in the hands should also not use cock rings as they may struggle to remove them.

In addition, a person should avoid the use of cock rings while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

People should also avoid using cock rings if they have any of the following conditions:

There are several possible benefits of wearing a cock ring, which include:

  • Helping with ED: Some people who find it difficult to maintain an erection may find a cock ring helpful. The device constricts the penis, which traps blood and keeps the penis erect for longer.
  • Adding stimulation: Some cock rings also vibrate, which can bring extra satisfaction.
  • Increasing sensation: A person who wears a cock ring can boost penis sensation, which increases their pleasure.

While anecdotal evidence claims cock rings can prevent premature ejaculation, scientific evidence points to the contrary. A 2007 study suggests no significant evidence that penile constriction devices help with premature ejaculation.

In some cases, cock rings can get stuck on the penis. However, according to 2016 research, penile strangulation with metal cock rings is not common.

In a 2018 case study, doctors used a ring cutter to remove a metal cock ring that became stuck. The removal was quick, easy, and did not injure the person’s penis.

If a cock ring gets stuck, people should not try to cut it off themselves. They should visit an emergency room immediately.

Healthcare professionals have the tools to remove this type of device safely. Doctors will administer a topical numbing agent and may sedate the person before removing the ring with surgical instruments, such as a drill. Please note, the source linked here contains explicit images.

How medical professionals will remove the device depends on the degree of penile entrapment. Doctors may remove it using one of the following techniques:

  • sliding
  • cutting
  • surgery

The sooner a person with a stuck penis ring seeks help, the more likely they are to avoid complications.

Possible complications of penile strangulation include:

  • decrease or loss of sensation in the penis
  • urinary tract issues
  • severe swelling of the penis
  • necrosis
  • gangrene
  • amputation
  • death

Cock rings are available in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials. People can experiment to find what works for them and their partner(s).

A cock ring with a built-in vibrator may also help enhance sexual pleasure for the wearer and their sexual partner(s).

People should consider any allergies they may have when buying a cock ring. For example, some may not be suitable for people with latex allergies.

A cock ring should fit snugly enough to trap blood and not cause injury or pain. An adjustable or flexible ring may be preferable for beginners.

It is important to note that metal cock rings are challenging to remove if they become stuck. The International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) recommend that people avoid metal rings because they are less flexible than other cock rings.

A person should put a cock ring on an erect penis. Once applied, people can use them during various types of sex, including oral, anal, and vaginal sex. They can also enhance pleasure during masturbation.

A person should also use lubrication when applying a cock ring.

If a cock ring has a vibrator, it can provide added clitoral stimulation or enhance anal sex. People can also pair a cock ring with other sex toys to intensify their pleasure.

A cock ring is a safe sex toy, but a few precautions are necessary, including:

  • Lubrication: Helps prevent uncomfortable friction between the cock ring and penis.
  • Hygiene: Cleaning sex toys is important, and cock rings are no exception. People should wash them after each use to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Duration of use: People should not use a cock ring for longer than 30 minutes. They should also wait 1 hour between uses and remove the cock ring when going to sleep. People who wear one for too long can cause penile strangulation, which is a medical emergency.

A cock ring is a sex toy that people wear at the base of the penis. It is also compatible with dildos or butt plugs.

Some people may find cock rings help with ED, and they may also increase sexual pleasure.

A cock ring should fit well around the penis without causing pain or discomfort. People should apply one to a lubricated penis and not wear it for longer than 30 minutes to prevent penile strangulation.

If the cock ring becomes stuck on the penis, a person will need to seek medical attention.