Do ED rings work? What to know, plus top options

ED rings are bands that fit around the base of the penis to help people maintain an erection. They may support the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), by slowing the flow of blood from the penis.

According to research, ED affects 32–80% of males, depending on the age group. It is more common among older adults and in those with certain medical problems or on specific medications, but ED can occur at any age.

ED can have a significant impact on mood and relationships, so treating it is often a priority for those with the condition. ED rings may offer an inexpensive and effective solution to the problem for some individuals.

In this article, we discuss ED rings and list some of the best options available for purchase.
What are they?
A person uses an ED ring to help maintain an erection.

ED rings are usually made of rubber, plastic, or silicone. It is also possible to buy metal ED rings. The rings fit around the base of the penis.

Some rings comprise a hoop that fits around the penis, and another, the penoscrotal ring, that fits around the testicles.

Other ED rings have additional features that allow them to stimulate the female clitoris simultaneously.

Other names for ED rings include:

cock rings
constriction bands
penis rings
tension bands
tension rings

Penis rings are an essential part of vacuum therapy systems, also known as penis pumps. While the pump helps people achieve an erection, the ED ring enables them to maintain it.

Learn about some top available penis pumps here.
Do they work?

There are only limited studies on the effectiveness of ED rings alone in the treatment of ED.

However, research indicates that the combination of ED medications and ED devices, or vacuum pumps with penis rings, can significantly improve erectile function.

Older research supports the use of ED drugs and penoscrotal rings to achieve reliable erections.

Erectile dysfunction occurs when the blood leaves the penis too quickly. ED rings work by applying pressure to the area surrounding the penis and, in some cases, the penis and testicles.

This pressure causes the blood vessels to constrict, or tighten, causing the blood to leave the penis more slowly. Therefore, an individual can maintain their erection for longer.

ED rings work best when the person can achieve an erection but cannot maintain it. However, they do not work for everyone.

For some people, the rings may work best when combined with ED medications, or a vacuum penis pump, or both.