Are Cock Rings Safe? 17 Things To Know Before Use - Healthline

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HealthlineSubscribeAre Cock Rings Safe? 17 Things to Know Before Use

Medically reviewed by Janet Brito, Ph.D., LCSW, CST-S — Written by Kimberly Holland on March 14, 2019

Safety
Myths
Potential benefits
Reasons to reconsider
Tips for selection
How to use
Precautions
If you can’t remove it
FAQs
Takeaway

Is it safe?

Cock rings are safe if they’re used correctly.

These sexual devices help trap blood in and around the penis to prevent it from flowing out during an erection.

This makes the penis tissue harder — and slightly bigger — for a longer period of time. It can also delay orgasm to result in a more intense climax.

Curious? Here’s how to find the right fit and other tips for safe use.

Common myths and misconceptions

Here, the most common ones and how you can set your mind at ease.

It’ll make your penis fall off

Although this is technically possible, it’s highly unlikely.

When a cock ring is in place, it reduces the amount of blood flow out of the penis and scrotum.

This can put a lot of pressure on the skin in and around the penis. If the ring is left on too long, it can result in cell damage.

In extremely rare cases — resulting from extreme, days-on-end scenarios — the damage may be permanent.

It’ll get stuck on your penis

Again, this is technically possible, but it’s highly unlikely.

If the penis ring you use is too small, it may become too tight when you’re erect. That’s why it’s important to find a size that’s right for you.

If you do happen to use the wrong size, there’s no need to worry.

Many cock rings are made from materials that can be easily cut away if you’re unable to roll it off.

Some even have fasteners or Velcro strips for fast and easy removal.

It’ll pull out your pubes

Cock rings come in multiple materials, several of which are unlikely to grab hair. You can also buy cock rings with a flat edge, which prevents them from rolling down the shaft.

If you’re still on edge, consider trimming the hair around your penis and testicles to further prevent snagging.

The hair will grow back, and you’ll feel more relaxed not worrying about a few pinches from pulled hair.

It’ll break the skin

This won’t happen if you wear a properly fitted cock ring for the recommended amount of time.

But you could irritate and inflame the skin around the penis if you wear one too long or frequently use one that’s too small.

Getting the right fit is important, so take the time to find an appropriate size.

What can using a cock ring do for you?

The benefits of using a cock ring go beyond helping you achieve a longer erection.

Other reasons to use this sexual device include:

helping you achieve an erection if you experience erectile dysfunction (ED)
helping you maintain an erection if you have difficulty remaining erect long enough for intercourse or masturbation
achieving a slightly larger erection
achieving a harder erection
increasing sensation
delaying orgasm and making it more intense when it does occur

Is there anyone who shouldn’t use a cock ring?

Talk to a doctor before use if you:

take blood-thinning medication
take medication that affects awareness or attention
have an existing penile injury
experience soreness in the groin or genital area
have diabetes
have any type of blood or nerve disease
have cardiovascular disease

Your doctor or other healthcare provider can discuss your individual risks and advise you on any next steps.

What to look for

A wide variety of cock rings are available. It’s important to find the size, material, and overall fit that allows you to feel comfortable and safe during use.

Material

Cock rings are available in flexible materials, such as rubber or silicone, and slightly firmer ones, such as leather or neoprene.

These materials have some degree of stretch to them. More importantly, they can be cut in case of an emergency.

Some cock rings are made from metal, which is more difficult to remove.

Size

Getting the right size is key to safety. It also allows you to get the most benefit out of your device.

If you want to try a solid ring, you’ll need to measure yourself first.

To do this:

Wrap a thin strip of paper or string around the base of your flaccid penis.
If you plan to use your ring behind your scrotum, wrap the paper or string behind the scrotum and across the top of the penis.
Measure where the string or paper meets (this is the circumference). Divide that number by pi (3.14159) to get a diameter measurement.

Most fixed cock rings are sold by diameter size, so use this number to shop.

You can also purchase an adjustable cock ring.

These rings reduce the pressure of getting a just-right fit from a fixed-loop cock ring. They can also be adjusted during sex for better pressure.

Once fixed cock rings are in place, you can’t adjust their tightness. You may also have a hard time removing them until you’re flaccid again.

Weight

Weighted penis rings promise greater sensation during an erection.

However, penis rings that are too heavy can damage the structure of the penis. This can lead to nerve damage.

If you choose to use a weighted cock ring, start with the lowest weight possible. This will reduce the risks and help you become more accustomed to the device.

Variations

Cock rings go beyond a basic fitted or adjustable loop. Many include attachments for additional fun.

This includes:

vibrating elements for vaginal or scrotal stimulation
a second loop for the testicles
attachments for anal or clitoral stimulation
ribbed or dotted texture for stimulation

Adjustable cock rings also come in several variations with attachments.

For example, a bolo tie-style cock ring uses a string of stretchy material and a bead to adjust firmness.

Some firm rubber cock rings also include snap closures for easy on/off action.

How to use it

You can safely and effectively use a cock ring during sex or masturbation as long as you follow the recommended steps and usage tips.

How to put it on

If you’re using the cock ring on the penis shaft alone:

Lift the head of the flaccid penis.
Gently move the ring down the length of the penis.

A bit of lubrication may make this go more smoothly.

If you’re using the cock ring around the scrotum and penis:

Place one testicle inside the loop, followed by the second testicle.
Bend the flaccid penis and push it gently through the loop.
Secure the ring in place behind the scrotum and across the top of the penis.

If you’re using an adjustable ring, you can put the ring in place, then tighten the snaps or adhesive straps until the ring fits snuggly (but not tightly).

If you’re using a condom

A condom won’t make a cock ring less effective. You can wear both.

Simply put the condom on first, and roll it to the end of your penis. Then, put the cock ring in place.

Make sure the cock ring isn’t sticking to the condom. Friction or rubbing could increase the risk for tearing.

As your penis becomes firmer, you may need to adjust the condom and cock ring until they’re both securely in place.

If you’re using lube

It’s always a good idea to use a bit of water-based lube on a cock ring as you slide it into place. This helps prevent any tugging or pulling on skin.

You can also use lube during intercourse or masturbation.

Just keep in mind that as more fluids are added, the chances of the cock ring slipping increase.

Precautions to take

Cock rings are safe to use as long as you keep a few safety elements in mind.

Use lubrication

Lubrication gets cock rings on and off a bit more easily.

However, you shouldn’t use any lubes with a numbing additive. This effect can reduce sensation, which could increase your risk for injury.

If the pressure is too great, you may not be able to feel it because of the numbing cream.

Set a timer

You shouldn’t wear a cock ring for more than 30 minutes at a time.

You may find it helpful to set a timer to count down from when you first became erect.

The timer serves a secondary purpose of helping you remember to take the penis ring off before you fall asleep.

Because of nocturnal erections, it’s never a good idea to doze off while still wearing your cock ring.

Watch out for these symptoms

Remove the penis ring immediately if you experience:

numbness
coldness
discomfort
discoloration (a pale or blue color)
pain
dramatic swelling

These signs and symptoms all indicate you may be experiencing complications with the cock ring. It’s better to turn back now, before the issues get worse.

What to do if you can’t get it off

If penis rings remain on too long, they can constrict blood flow. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and permanent damage. That’s why it’s important you know what to do to get one off before you use it.

If the cock ring is too tight once you’re erect or you can’t get it off after climax, try to remain calm. You should:

Add more lube to encourage the ring to slide off your penis or scrotum.
Slide a tissue or thin paper between the ring and your skin, if possible. This can help prevent scratching when you slide scissors under the ring and snip it off.
Visit the emergency room if you used a metal cock ring or one you can’t cut.

Common questions

Does it hurt?

It shouldn’t, but it can. If it does, take the cock ring off right away. Try a bigger size next time, or look for an adjustable option that gives you greater control.

How long is it safe to leave on for?

The length of time depends on the cock ring’s fit and style, but 30 minutes is the maximum window. Pay attention for signs of discomfort or potential problems, and remove the ring sooner if needed.

Are they just used to treat ED?

No, cock rings aren’t just for people with ED or impotence. It’s one way couples or individuals can add fun to their sex life, so many individuals use them for pleasure, not medical reasons.

How do they affect your own orgasm?

Penis rings can delay orgasm, which may heighten the sensation once you finally do climax. The longer it takes you to come, the more intense the orgasm may be.

However, this isn’t the case for everyone. It’s just one of the possible benefits.

Is there any benefit for your partner?

Some cock rings come with attachments designed for your partner. These attachments include extensions for anal, vaginal, or clitoral stimulation.

Likewise, the use of cock rings may make your erection harder and help it last longer. This can increase the length of intercourse, which may also benefit your partner.

Can you share the ring with your partner?

Some cock rings are made of non-porous materials, so they could be shared. However, that may not be the best idea for sanitary reasons.

Instead, wash your ring after you use it. Dry it immediately, and store it in a safe place.

Likewise, your fixed-loop cock rings may not fit a partner. They’re designed to fit you. Create your own separate stash of cock rings, and use them separately for both safety and health reasons.

The bottom line

Cock rings can be used safely and bring a lot of fun to your sexual activities. It’s vital that you pick a cock ring that properly fits you and suits your needs.

It’s also important that you watch for signs of discomfort, discoloration, or pain. If you experience those, remove the cock ring immediately.

At any point, you can also talk with a doctor or other healthcare provider about your use of cock rings. In addition to helping you learn to use cock rings safely, they may have other strategies for helping with ED if that’s the reason you’re using the device.

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Considering cock rings. (2015).https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/considering-cock-rings
Mitsogiannis IC, et al. (2018). A case of penile strangulation after placement of metallic rings. DOI:http://www.urologyannals.com/article.asp?issn=0974-7796;year=2018;volume=10;issue=2;spage=222;epage=224;aulast=Mitsogiannis

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Medically reviewed by Janet Brito, Ph.D., LCSW, CST-S — Written by Kimberly Holland on March 14, 2019

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