 What are they? How do they work? Will they make my penis bigger and harder? Why would I use one? How would I use one? Are there any risks involved? What are they? How do they work? A cock ring, or constriction ring, is placed either around the base of the penis, around the penis and testicles, or just around the testicles (testicle cuff). An erection occurs in a man when there is increased blood flow to his genitals. A cock ring increases the amount of blood in the penis by preventing the blood from leaving, resulting in larger, harder erections that may last longer. Rings can be made of various materials such as metal, rubber, silicone, or leather. Cock rings come in a traditional single-strap style or one of many variations on that theme such as a ring that separates the balls or squeezes the testicles, one that stimulates your partner during penetration (look for nubbins and “clit ticklers”), one with vibrators or bullet vibes, or one that is inflatable. Some models have multiple rings: one or more for the shaft, one for the base of the testicles, one for each testicle (called a “ball divider” or “ball spreader”), or any combination of these. Rings that provide ball spreading or dividing pull the testicles down and away from the body, a sensation many men enjoy, as the natural inclination during arousal is for the testicles to retract toward the body. Will they make my penis bigger and harder? For a short time. When you wear the ring and are aroused, your erection is likely to be a bit bigger, harder, and may be more sensitive and last longer. None of these results will be permanent. Why would I use one? For pleasure/recreation. The ring creates a feeling of tightness and engorgement that many men find extremely arousing. A ring increases the amount of blood in the penis resulting in a bigger, harder erection that may last longer. Many men report increased sensitivity when using a ring, and some find that it delays ejaculation (though the opposite effect may result from the increased sensitivity.) But typically men report that the use of the ring results in a delayed and heightened (more intense) orgasm. A ring can be used in conjunction with other toys, such as male masturbators or butt plugs, or can be incorporated into your encounters with a partner. Because it is used to bind the penis and/or testicles, cock rings are often incorporated into BDSM play. For medical reasons: According to the FDA, a constriction ring may be used together with a penis pump to help you get and maintain an erection if you have erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence. Try slipping on a cock ring and then using a penis pump to get the best erection possible. Some believe this method results in a harder erection – without the use of prescription drugs like Viagra. If you have ED or impotence, see a doctor to avoid a potentially harmful delay in diagnosing some of the causes of this condition. Not everyone with ED should use a constriction ring or pump, so before using them consult a physician (and perhaps also your favorite hottie dressed up as one.) How would I use one? Choose a style. Begin by choosing an appropriate ring. Some rings can be removed at any time; others cannot, such as the solid metal rings. For novices, we recommend that you choose one that can be removed at any time (snaps off or stretches to be removed) and one that is easy to adjust. Choose a size. Some rings are made of a flexible material that will give a better fit, but rings are not one-size-fits-all. Measure the diameter of your shaft when it is hard. (Better yet, have that hot physician/nurse get that vital statistic.) Either choose a similar ring size or choose a ring that is adjustable, such as one with multiple snaps. Put the ring on correctly. If you choose an adjustable cock ring you can put it on at any time. Once you have an erection adjust the strap so it is snug but not uncomfortable, as it should not hurt. (Note: if using a cock ring with Velcro fasteners, you may want to trim your pubic hair beforehand so it doesn’t get caught in the Velcro.) If you choose a non-adjustable ring, such as a metal ring, you must put it on when flaccid. Hold the ring under your testicles and insert them one at a time. Then insert your flaccid penis, head first. The ring should be at the base of your shaft and behind your testicles, so that your shaft and balls are in front of the ring. Hold the ring in place until your erection is large enough (Again, here is where that skimpily clad medical professional might assist.) to hold it there. This style of ring will only come off when you are no longer erect, and therefore is only for men with extensive experience using rings. Take it off when necessary. If you are a novice, keep the ring on for no more than 5-10 minutes. If you are an experienced user, use it for no more than 20-30 minutes at a time, and be sure to leave it off for at least 60 minutes before you use it again. Be creative and have fun! Try combining a cock ring with a male masturbator for intense solo play, or slip in a butt plug or Aneros prostate stimulator for over-the-top stimulation. Combine a ring with testicle weights for an arousing sense of pulling on the balls while you masturbate. Try using with a partner, who will appreciate your larger, rock-hard erection. Choose a ring with vibrators or nubbins to increase your partner’s enjoyment during penetration. Are there any risks involved? If you use a constriction ring as recommended you are unlikely to encounter any problems. Here are some guidelines to ensure a safe, fun experience with your ring: 1. Remove the ring at the first sign of pain or discomfort. 2. Never use a ring for more than thirty minutes. Do not fall asleep wearing a cock ring, as you have erections throughout the night. 3. Always allow at least sixty minutes between uses of the ring. 4. Use the least constrictive ring possible to achieve the desired effect. 5. Do not use a ring while impaired by alcohol or drugs. 6. Cock rings are not intended for use as a method of birth control. 7. Frequent or prolonged use of constriction rings may result in bruising and permanent injury of your penis. 8. Consult your physician before trying a ring, and if any complications occur. As always, this article does not replace the advice of a physician, regardless of how he or she may be dressed. |