How to use a Cock Ring

Medically reviewed by Dr. Megan Fleming.

Written by Lucy, Lovehoney Editorial team.

Last updated 29/03/2022.

With the power to potentially increase stamina, enhance erection size and delay orgasm, ‘multi-tasker’ should be the cock ring’s middle name.

You may see them listed as ‘stamina rings’, ‘penis rings’or even ‘constriction rings’, but they all do the same fantastic job of boosting your erection and enhancing both you and your partner’s pleasure.

We think absolutely everyone (with a penis) should not only own one but also know exactly how to use a cock ring. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you learn how to properly wear and use a cock ring to enhance your bedroom sessions. Most of our advice is pretty penis-centric, but fear not: clitoris-havers can also enjoy the benefits of these fantastic toys!

Recommended Cock Rings

What does a Cock Ring do?

Cock rings work by preventing blood from flowing back down the penis, which can help make erections feel harder and last longer than usual. Your individual experience may vary from cock ring to cock ring, but we can all agree this sounds like a pretty good thing.

What is the purpose of a Cock Ring?

Since wearing a cock or penis ring traps blood in the penis for longer, people use them to help experience stronger erections and heightened sensitivity. Because of this, many people with penises choose to wear them to make sex and masturbation a more pleasurable experience for themselves and their partners.

How to put on a Cock Ring

Cock rings can be worn on just the shaft of the penis, or around the testicles too. Whatever type you prefer, we’ve got some tips and tricks on how to put on and wear a cock ring to get the most out of it.

1. Try it on for size

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Before adding a cock ring into your bedroom routine, it’s a good idea to try it on before things get hot and heavy. This way, you can check the size and fit and minimize any discomfort in the moment.

There are lots of cock ring sizes out there, so take some time to work out which is the best for you and your penis. At no point should the ring feel painful or distractingly uncomfortable. If you see a visible narrowing of the penis where the cock ring sits, or your penis becomes very red or blueish, it’s too small and you should remove it right away.

If you buy a cock ring set and find the smallest size doesn’t fit your shaft, you can try slipping your balls through it one at a time and using it as a testicle ring instead.

“The large ring is a nice fit, enough to know it's there but not too tight. The medium ring is very good at making my erections very strong.” - LoverPlanet

For more tips on getting the perfect fit, check out our guide on how to measure yourself for a cock ring.

2. Slide into it

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Okay, so how do you actually put on a cock/constriction ring?

You should put a cock ring on when your penis is flaccid, and it’s usually easier to slide your way in with the help of some lubricant.

We recommend using a good quality water-based lube, which will be compatible with all cock rings, no matter what material they’re made of.

When it comes to putting on the cock ring, add some lube to the toy and yourself, and then simply slide the ring over the head of your penis and then down the shaft, making sure it rests at the base. If you’re wearing a cock ring in front of the testicles, you can also put it on once you’re partially erect.

The rings stretch quite far and are easy to put on. Just put a bit of lube on the inside of the ring and then on you, stretch it, then slide it over right to the base, and there you go, you're good to go.” - GooseJelly

If you’re wearing a cock and ball ring, which sits behind your testicles at the base of the penis, put the testicles through first, one at a time. You can then gently fold your penis up through the ring and slide it into position.

3. Get creative

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Once you’re comfortable with how to put on a penis ring, feel free to get creative with how and where you use it. In fact, despite the name, cock rings don’t even need to be used on a penis!

If you’re wondering how to use a cock ring to give your partner the most pleasure, you can slide a stretchy vibrating cock ring around two or three fingers to deliver some tantalizing sensations to your partner’s clitoris, perineum or balls during foreplay.

You can also pop a vibrating cock ring onto your favorite dildo to create a custom rabbit vibrator for completely tailored blended play. Plus, most cock rings are small enough to fit in your pocket, making them ideal for surprising your OH on an intimate weekend away or whenever the mood takes you.

And, cock rings aren’t just for enhancing sex with a partner. Try wearing a vibrating cock ring during your solo sessions to add mind-blowing vibrations to your masturbation.

“My partner did use this in solo play too. He had the cock ring on a different way, with the bullet under his testicles. He said that this was simply amazing as the vibrations were concentrating on one of his more sensitive areas.” - sexytime87

Are Cock Rings safe?

Yes, a cock ring is perfectly safe to use, as long as you follow the instructions and ensure that you’re not wearing it for too long.

Just remember that at no point should the cock ring cause painful restriction - a cock ring that's too tight can do more damage than good, and your VIP is too valuable to risk!

How long can you wear a Cock Ring?

It’s recommended that you should wear a cock ring for no longer than 30 minutes. Anything longer than this and you run the risk of restricting blood flow too much.

Since cock rings restrict blood flow, it’s normal for your penis to have a slightly engorged look when you wear one, with pronounced veins and a reddish blush. However, it’s important to always remove your cock ring after half-an-hour to let the blood flow in your penis go back to normal.

If you notice visible narrowing of the penis where the cock ring sits or a very red or blueish color to the penis, this is a sign the cock ring is too tight or has been on too long and should be removed immediately.

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