COCK RINGS

By Michelle Peters

A cock ring is one of the oldest mechanical sex aids used for sustaining an erection for a longer than ordinary period.

One of the oldest cock rings was called a hairy ring (also happy ring or goat's eyelid). This dates back to the Orient in the 13th century and was made from the eyelashes of slain goats. These were chemically treated and inlaid in rings that fit over the glands penis. Today's version has soft bristles or blunt points -- all designed to provide extra stimulation of the vagina during coitus. Powders and rings can have bad effects for some and most people use them with caution until they are certain the item is safe.

Another device similar to the hairy ring is the rubber beaded erection ring that doubles as a cock ring and vaginal or anal massager when worn at the base of the glands penis. The Japanese have a sulfur ring that fits around the neck of the glands penis, desensitizing the penis while at the same time acting as an astringent to tighten the vaginal walls.

Metal or plastic cock rings are placed, in position by first inserting one testicle through the ring, followed by the second testicle, and finally the flaccid penis is pulled through. The penis must be flaccid when putting on a metal ring. Rubber rings are occasionally used under the glands for penile stimulation but are removed for intercourse.

Rings are available in sizes of approximately 1 ½-2" in diameter and are designed to fit at the base of the penis below the testicles. A simple method used in measuring for the size is that of tying a string around the appropriate area while erect and using that measurement to determine the circumference.

Leather snap-on cock rings are placed around the base of the penis below the testicle and are adjustable in size because of the selection of strategically placed snaps. This type of cock ring is fairly safe because it's easy to remove. Metal rings have special uses in sex games; they hold their shape when cords or ropes are passed through for bondage purposes, and they conduct electricity for cock torture games. Gates of hell are used in S/M play. These are cock rings that have several leather straps or metal rings that fit at intervals along the shaft of the penis. They may also have spikes on the inside to discourage erection. This type of device is safest when it can be unsnapped. CAUTION: A cock ring is removed if the penis begins to tingle or burn. If the cock ring is metal this may create a complication because an erect penis must become flaccid before it can be removed. This is normally accomplished by either wrapping an Ace bandage around the penis or placing cold compresses on it. If neither of these methods work a physician is consulted as soon as possible. Prolonged venal constriction can cause thrombosis of the veins.