A cock ring is a simple pleasure aid that can be used to trap blood in the penis, encouraging an erection or providing extra stimulation. Cock rings are available in a wide range of materials, shapes and sizes, from inexpensive plastic for $5 to solid gold, pearl-encrusted designs that can cost $65,000.

These small sex toys have been around for centuries and can be used during sexual play to prolong or intensify erections, stimulate arousal and delay orgasm. They’re also a common addition to masturbation kits and are a popular choice for people with erectile dysfunction or other health issues that prevent them from having an erection naturally. Cock rings can be positioned to touch any sensitive spot on the body, and vibrating models are available for added stimulation.

There’s no right or wrong way to use a cock ring, but some tips and tricks will make the experience more pleasurable for both partners. For example, it’s important to use a quality lubricant and to test the ring out before starting to make sure it fits properly. A cock ring that is too loose will slide off the penis, while a ring that is too tight may cause pain or numbness. It’s best to wear a cock ring for short bursts of time (no more than 30 minutes), as restricting fresh blood flow can cause tissue damage.

A cock ring can be worn alone or with a partner, and it’s especially fun for couples to use it together during oral or anal sex. It’s also a great toy for single people who want to add new elements to their masturbation routine or to try out new positions.

For a more intense sensation, use a cock ring with a clitoral vibrator positioned to touch the clitoris or a perineum tickler positioned under the cock to arouse the vulva. Or, use a ring with built-in vibration to give yourself or your partner additional stimulation during penetration.

While it’s unlikely to happen, a cock ring can get stuck on the glans or other part of the anatomy, so it’s important to remove it if you feel pain or numbness. The good news is that this will probably be painful only for a few seconds, and it’s not usually serious.

The sexperts we spoke with recommend using stretchy silicone cock rings, which are easy to put on and will stretch around most penises without tearing. These are a great option for new users or those with a larger girth, and they’re also easy to wash when you’re done playing with them. Solid cock rings are also available and are made of materials like metal, rubber or hard plastic that don’t stretch, but these are typically recommended for more experienced users who know what they’re doing.