Cock rings are a kinky accessory that can make masturbation with a partner or on your own even more pleasurable. They’re available in a variety of configurations, including ones that vibrate and others that come with remote controls that let you give your partner control over how tight the ring is or how hard it vibrates. You can also add a cock ring to a strap-on or sex toy, making vaginal and anal double penetration more pleasurable.
There are many different materials that cock rings can be made from, but the most popular by far is silicone. Silicone is flexible, waterproof, and hypoallergenic, and it’s also very soft against the skin. It’s also hygienic and easy to clean with a mild soap and water. Other common cock ring materials include rubber, neoprene, and some metals (including aluminum, steel, titanium, silver, gold and platinum). They’re also available in a wide range of sizes. Some are very small — for right under the head of the penis (and sometimes called “glans rings”) while others are much wider and sort of oblong, like an actual cock.
The history of the cock ring starts in China, where men in the Jin Dynasty were looking for ways to stiffen their dicks so they could better serve multiple wives and concubines, plus produce lots of heirs. Someone came up with the idea of wearing a ring around the glans to trap blood and encourage a firmer erection. This, in turn, would boost pleasure and prolong orgasms.
In the 1790s, a book called Justine or The Misfortunes of Virtue by the notoriously dirty-minded Marquis de Sade was published, helping to normalize and popularize this sort of kinky activity. Soon cock rings were everywhere and still are today.
A cock ring is not for everyone, however, especially if you have serious medical issues like erectile dysfunction or Peyronie’s disease. It’s a good idea to talk with your doctor before using one, and never use it while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, it’s important to avoid cock rings made from metals that are likely to cause an allergic reaction, and you should always wash your hands before and after using one.
If you do decide to try a cock ring, it’s best to start off slow and with a little bit of lube. It’s essential to get the right size cock ring so that it doesn’t cut off circulation or hurt. The ring should be snug but not too tight, and it should be comfortable against the glans. If the cock ring causes pain or discomfort, it’s too tight or you’re allergic to the material.
It’s also not a good idea to wear a cock ring if you have health problems that may be aggravated by the pressure or friction, such as heart disease, diabetes, or vascular problems like sickle cell anemia. Finally, it’s important not to sleep while wearing a cock ring or to use it while you’re impaired by alcohol or drugs.
