How To Use a Cock Ring: It Isn't as HARD as You Think

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A ring-shaped toy that’s designed to go around the base of the penis, a cock ring can enhance the pleasure of not only the wearer, but also their partner. By restricting blood flow out of the penis, the wearer can enjoy longer, harder, bigger erections and even more intense sensations during oral, vaginal, anal, or solo sex.

New to the idea and want to give it a try? Here's what you need to know.

What Is a Cock Ring?

A cock ring — also called a C-ring, penis ring, constriction band, or tension ring — is designed to go around the base of the penis. (Rings designed to go around the penis and testicles are also called penoscrotal rings.)

They can be made of a variety of materials: metal, silicone, nylon, or leather. These are hardly a new invention — the earliest references to C-rings can be found around 1200 B.C. Not surprising at all: The Greeks and Romans enjoyed using them, too.

When a wearer puts a cock ring around the base of their penis, the blood that flows into the penis during arousal is gently restricted from flowing back into the body. This added pressure can give the wearer an extra-hard erection, make it last longer, enhance the sensitivity of the penis, and even increase the intensity of orgasms.

Many people find that wearing a cock ring can delay orgasm, which means that when the Big O finally rolls around, it's even more intense and enjoyable than usual.

For people who experience erectile dysfunction (ED), a cock ring can help sustain an erection longer and provide non-pharmaceutical help for their sex life. (If this is why you're considering trying a cock ring, it's best to speak with your doctor first. ED can be caused by serious underlying conditions, and you want to rule those out.)

Types of Cock Rings, and How to Select the Right One

Cock rings come in a variety of materials and styles, ranging from simple to delightfully, tantalizingly complex.

Experts recommend that if you're just beginning your cock ring journey, silicone rings are a great place to start. They're flexible and soft, which makes them ideal for getting the hang of using them. They also come in a variety of thicknesses and textures — from minimal to chunky or even studded.

Some include elements beyond the ring itself. One popular addition is a vibrator — a small, battery-operated buzz to supercharge sex for both the wearer and their partner. Other extras include attached parts for perineal or anal stimulation, or even a remote control for extra fun for spontaneous couple's play.

More advanced C-rings can be made of metal or leather — both can provide intense sensation, but can be less forgiving for beginner play.

When deciding which cock ring is the best choice for you, consider your level of experience and how you'd like to include it in your sex life. Will you be using it with a partner, and if so, do you both enjoy the sensation of vibration? Or is that too much? Do you plan on bringing it into the shower? What kind of extra elements would your partner enjoy?

How to Use a Cock Ring (Solo or With a Partner)

Step one: Lube it up! If you're using a silicone ring, however, be sure to use a non-silicone-based lube. (Silicone lube can corrode the toy material.) Spread a small amount around the inside of the ring, and then slide it onto the penis. It's best to do this when the penis is soft or semi-hard. Trying to put a ring on a fully erect penis can be painful or difficult.

Exactly where the user wants to wear the ring is up to them. Many prefer to wear it at the base of the penis, but some people enjoy the sensation of a (stretchy) cock ring all the way around the penis and scrotum. (If you go this route, be sure to take it slow so as not to cause injury.) It should feel pleasantly snug, but not too tight.

It's important to keep a few safety tips in mind when using cock rings:

  • Don't leave it on for more than 30 minutes.
  • Remove it if it causes pain, discomfort, or bruising.
  • Remove immediately if your penis is numb, discolored, or cold.
  • Avoid rings that are made of a material you're allergic to (latex, for example).
  • If you have a blood disease or clotting disorder, talk to your doctor before using a cock ring.

Once you've got the ring positioned comfortably, you're off to the races! Experiment with how it changes your sensation or experience, whether you're enjoying a solo sesh or a romp with a partner.

Myths About Cock Rings

Myth: Cock rings are dangerous.

Truth: When used properly, cock rings are perfectly safe (and lots of fun!) for the wearer and their partner.

Myth: It will get stuck on your penis.

Truth: While this is technically possible, most cock rings are made of soft, stretchy material to prevent this mishap. If you're unable to slide one off your penis, it’s usually soft enough material to cut if necessary. To avoid this, it's important to get a cock ring that's the right size for you. Start with a multi-size set to try out the varying sizes and get it just right.

Myth: You can’t wear a condom and a cock ring.

Truth: You absolutely can! Simply put the condom on first, lube up the ring, and slide it over the top. Wearing a condom shouldn't impact the use of a cock ring at all.

So whether you're looking to explore and try out your first cock ring, or you’re ready to level up to something with more bells and whistles, you'll find exactly what you're seeking at Peachwood.

Top Selling Cock Rings on Peachwood

Charged Ohare Xl Wear Vibe Blk-indv | $57.95

Charged Ohare Xl Wear Vibe Blk-indv

Fantasy C-Ringz Silicone Designer Stamina Set - Purple | $5.99

Fantasy C-Ringz Silicone Designer Stamina Set - Purple

Fantasy C-Ringz Twin Teazer Rabbit Ring - Purple | $43.99

Fantasy C-Ringz Twin Teazer Rabbit Ring - Purple

Pipedream Dr. Honn's Famous Erection Ring - Light | $9.00

Pipedream Dr. Honn's Famous Erection Ring - Light

Fantasy C-Ringz Silicone Taint-Alizer - Black | $23.99

Fantasy C-Ringz Silicone Taint-Alizer - Black

References

Everything you need to know about cock rings. Medical News Today (July 2020).

How Penis Rings Can Help You Have Better Sex. Men's Health (July 2020).

How to Use a Cock Ring, Just in Case You Were Wondering. Self (July 2019).

9 Nifty Uses for Cock Rings. Healthline (July 2019).

Are Cock Rings Safe? 17 Things to Know Before Use. Healthline (March 2019).