The Benefits of Cock Rings for Men’s Sexual Health and Performance: Insights from a Board-Certified Urologist
When it comes to improving erectile performance and enhancing pleasure, cock rings are one of the most under-discussed tools in men’s sexual health. In fact, as a fellowship-trained board-certified urologist, cock rings were rarely discussed as a treatment option during my training and they do not specifically show up as a treatment option in the American Urological Association’s erectile dysfunction guideline statements. And yet, as a board-certified urologist at Prime Institute, I talk about them with almost every patient I see because the benefits are undeniable, yet many men have never even considered them.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Cock Ring?
For men dealing with ED or struggling to maintain a strong erection, a cock ring can be a game-changer. Many men can achieve an erection but need constant stimulation to keep it. This can be frustrating, both mentally and physically. Cock rings work by trapping blood in the penis, which makes it easier to maintain that firmness without relying solely on medication like PDE5 inhibitors (like Viagra or Cialis).
Additionally, cock rings can enhance sensation for both partners. Some options feature vibrating components that add stimulation, especially for clitoral areas depending on position. Many men report that cock rings intensify their orgasms, and I often recommend them for patients experiencing delayed or reduced pleasure during climax. It’s important to note that you don’t need to have ED to benefit from a cock ring; they’re also suitable for anyone seeking to last longer, explore new sensations, or offer unique experiences to a partner.
How to Choose the Right Cock Ring: Essential Features
When selecting a cock ring, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable experience:
- Fit and Placement: Do you prefer it around just the base of the penis, or one that wraps around both the penis and testicles? Some men find testicle rings provide an added sensation.
- Ease of Use: Consider how simple it is to put on and remove the ring. Complicated designs can detract from the experience.
- Comfort: The ring should be tight enough to trap blood but not cause discomfort or pain.
- Material: Rings come in materials like silicone, which is comfortable and flexible, and metal, which offers a firmer grip but requires caution. Always choose a material that feels right for you. I have seen emergency cases where metal rings had to be removed, sometimes even requiring surgical intervention.
- Vibrating or Non-Vibrating Options: For enhanced pleasure, especially for your partner, consider a vibrating cock ring.
- Affordability and Durability: Silicone rings tend to be durable and affordable, while rings with advanced features might be pricier but offer a higher level of functionality and convenience.
Recommended Cock Rings: Technology and Design for Men’s Health
Two of my top recommendations are made by FirmTech. I decided to participate as a member of the scientific advisory board for this company because I believe this technology is revolutionizing the sextech space. Their TechRing is not just any cock ring- it’s like the Apple Watch of sextech. It’s a penile constriction band that helps maintain your erection, but it also tracks your erection quality. Using sensors, it collects data on erection duration, firmness, and even frequency. So, not only are you enjoying the benefits during sex, but you’re also getting real-time feedback on your erectile function during sexual activity and while sleeping. If you're managing ED or monitoring how well your treatments are working (like testosterone therapy) or want to track the impact of certain foods, exercise, sleep, or any other intervention, this technology provides real-time erectile fitness data to help you understand what helps, hurts, or has no impact on your erectile function. Plus, it’s the only ring that’s safe for overnight wear, which sets it apart from others that typically have a 20 to 30 minute time limit.
For men who are more about the function than the data, I recommend the FirmTech MaxPR. It’s a snug, tighter ring that wraps around both the penis and testicles, can be worn for up to an hour, which is longer than most other commercial options, and is easy to apply and remove.
How do you use a cock ring?
Our website features user-friendly videos to help wearers get the perfect fit and a user manual is included in your box. What sets FirmTech apart is its proprietary soft elastomer and its ability to be worn erect or flaccid – as an ”underwearable.” As a result, FirmTech rings can be put on well before showtime. Another unique feature is our “hook and loop” design – making our performance rings much easier to put on, by you or your partner.
Amy Pearlman, MD
To “get firm” visit MyFirmTech.com
