Cock rings are devices that encircle the penis, fitting either at the base or around the penis and testicles. They may be adjustable straps of leather or cloth with fasteners, or solid rings of rubber or metal. Although cock rings may be linked with bondage or sado-masochism, using one does not have to be painful or even uncomfortable. Most often, men use them to enhance their erections or pleasure during sex or masturbation. You don't have to be kinky to experiment with cock rings.

The big squeeze Cock rings work by restricting the flow of blood out of the penis, keeping it engorged. The vessels that bring blood into the penis during erection are farther from the surface than the veins that carry blood away. The cock ring exerts pressure on the surface vessels. This doesn't cut off the blood circulation, but slows it down, meaning you get a bigger, harder erection that can last longer. Additionally, if a cock ring also encircles the base of the penis and the scrotum, it will put pressure on the perineum, the area of skin between your balls and anus. This in itself can be pleasurable, but it may also put pressure on the vas deferens, which carries sperm to the penis, thereby delaying ejaculation. This can give you extra time and create a build-up to a truly explosive orgasm.

How do I put it on?

Most adjustable rings are designed to encircle the testes and penis. These rings are the easiest to put on, because all you have to do is wrap them around your cock and/or balls, and fasten the snap or Velcro closure. This can be a little tricky at first, but like fastening a wrist watch with one hand, you'll get the hang of it. While your penis is still soft, grab your whole package in one hand so you're lifting and holding your balls against the underside of the penis. Position the cock ring at the base of the balls and hold it in place by encircling it with your thumb and fingers. Then release your penis and fasten the closure with your free hand. Make sure it's not on too tightly and that you don't pinch anything when you close it! Position the closure wherever it feels most comfortable.

Putting on a solid metal or rubber ring is a bit trickier. First grab the loose skin of your scrotum and pull it through the cock ring, then pull or push your testicles through the ring. Press the ring up to make space at the top, then push your soft penis through and adjust the ring by pulling it back towards you. To remove a solid ring, repeat this procedure in reverse. Your penis must be soft to either put on or remove a solid cock ring.

Stretchy rings of jelly rubber or silicone that fit around the base of the penis but not the balls are easiest to put on if your penis is at least semi-erect. Although they may look too small to fit over your cock, they stretch a lot and can easily accommodate many sizes. These types of rings sometimes have a small vibrator in them, which can be used for clitoral stimulation of a partner during intercourse, but is also fun to turn on to add some buzz to masturbation.

Once it's on

Once you've succeeded in getting into your cock ring, what should you do? Start stroking and see what happens. You may find yourself getting one of the biggest erections of your life!

Some guys get so turned on by wearing a cock ring that they can ejaculate almost immediately from the excitement, while for others, it prolongs the erection and delays their ejaculation. If you have an adjustable cock ring, undoing the fastener and removing it near the moment of climax can bring explosive results.

Are they safe?

Because cock rings restrict the blood flow to a very precious part of your anatomy, some caution needs to be exercised when using them. Rings should fit snugly, and have to be tight enough to be effective, but they should not cause pain or discoloration of the flesh, or bite into your skin. Use extra care when using solid rings and don't attempt to wear a size that is too small for you. They come in a range of sizes, so get one that fits.

In general, you shouldn't leave a cock ring on for more than 30 minutes. Don't use Viagra in conjunction with a solid ring, because if you can't get soft you won't be able to get it off. Stretchy rings, even if they're comfortable, shouldn't be left on for more than half an hour either. Although they are stretchy, they also exert constant pressure on the blood vessels, and your penis needs to breathe. If you're concerned about safety, be sure to get an adjustable ring or one with a quick release, so you can remove it easily if you think there's a problem.

Special effects Some cock rings offer other enhancements, such as testicle spreaders. While we don't know if these enhance the ring's functionality, they do look and feel good! Other cock ring features, like flashing lights or glow in the dark material, definitely don't enhance a ring's effectiveness, but are fun nonetheless. Vibrating cock rings, on the other hand, can be stimulating to wear for both you and your partner.

Will it make me bigger?

Wearing a cock ring will not increase your penis size, at least not permanently. Some users report that their erections with a ring seem longer and harder than normal. This can be accounted for by the extra blood being held in the penis. However, even prolonged and repeated use of a cock ring will not enlarge the penis permanently. Although rings may help some people who have difficulty getting or staying hard, they will also not cure erectile dysfunction. Wearing a ring will also not automatically turn you into a stud or a fantastic lover, but feeling good about having an enhanced erection may inspire you to reach new heights.