When is it recommended?
After age 50 it is common for erections to be less firm and less durable than before. Mild venous leakage can be the cause—here a silicone constriction ring can mechanically help make the erection firmer and longer-lasting.
If an erection occurs but is not firm enough or subsides quickly, the constriction ring can help keep blood in place. In more severe, persistent erectile dysfunction it may not be sufficient alone—then it can be used in combination with a vacuum erection device.
For users of vacuum devices (Active 3, Manual Erection System) the constriction ring is a classical accessory. The pump creates the erection, and the ring can help maintain it—together they can form an effective mechanical solution available without prescription.
Erectile dysfunction often has cardiovascular, hormonal or neurological causes. The Backup Ring does not replace these treatments—but alongside prescribed urological therapy it may help make erections more stable. Consult your treating physician or urologist before use.
How does the constriction ring work?
An erection occurs when arterial blood fills the corpora cavernosa while venous outflow slows, keeping blood in place. If this venous compression is insufficient—for example due to mild venous leakage—the erection may subside quickly.
The Backup Ring offers a simple mechanical solution: by applying gentle circumferential pressure at the base of the penis it reduces venous outflow while allowing arterial inflow to continue. This helps blood remain in the penis longer, which can support the fullness and durability of the erection. The method has been used in urological practice for decades—both as a standalone aid and as an accessory to vacuum erection devices.
Important: Use the constriction ring for no more than 30 minutes at a time. If you notice numbness, pain or skin discolouration, remove it immediately. Prolonged blood pooling can cause tissue damage.
Frequently asked questions
Up to 30 minutes. Blood pooling from longer use can cause pain, numbness and occasionally tissue damage. If you notice numbness, pain or skin discolouration, remove it immediately.
If you are on anticoagulant therapy (Warfarin, Sintrom, NOACs such as apixaban, rivaroxaban), have a bleeding disorder (haemophilia), sickle cell anaemia or other haematological disease, consult your treating physician before using a constriction ring.
The Backup Ring is made of flexible silicone and designed to fit the vast majority of adult men. If the ring feels too tight or too loose, consider a different type of constriction ring—for example the Helpi Ring or other sizes available for vacuum devices.
Yes. Put the condom on first, then slide the Backup Ring into place. The silicone ring does not impair the protective effect of the condom.
Yes, this is one of the most common uses. The vacuum device (e.g. Active 3, Manual Erection System) creates the erection, and the constriction ring helps maintain it. It can be used alongside prescribed pharmacological treatment, but always consult your treating physician first.
Yes. The Backup Ring is made from medical-grade, latex-free silicone, so it is suitable for those with latex allergy.
User guide – brief
1
Preparation
Take the ring and check it for damage and cleanliness. If needed, apply a drop of water-based lubricant to ease placement.
2
Placement
Stretch the flexible silicone ring gently with both hands. Slide it over the penis and testicles, then position it at the base of the penis—behind the testicles, close to the body. The ring can be put on when the penis is flaccid or erect.
3
Check
The ring should be snug but not painfully tight. If you experience numbness, pain or skin discolouration, remove it immediately.
4
Removal
Keep on for no more than 30 minutes. After intercourse remove it—simply stretch and slide it off.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product category | Penile constriction ring (constriction ring) |
| Material | Medical-grade silicone, latex-free |
| Size | Universal – flexible, size-retaining |
| Maximum use time | 30 minutes / session |
| Lubricant compatibility | Water-based lubricants only |
| Cleaning | Warm water + mild soap |
| EAN | 4013273000857 |
| Manufacturer | KESSEL medintim GmbH, Germany |
| Certification | CE medical device (EU MDR) |
Important information before use
When NOT to use the constriction ring?
Do NOT use the constriction ring if:
- You are on anticoagulant therapy (Warfarin, NOACs) or have a known bleeding disorder (e.g. haemophilia)
- You have sickle cell anaemia, leukaemia or multiple myeloma
- You have a history of priapism (prolonged, painful erection)
- You have severe Peyronie’s disease (significant penile curvature)
- You have a penile implant
- Active genital dermatitis, eczema or an open wound on the penis / scrotum
- Reduced or absent sensation in the penis (e.g. diabetic or other neuropathy)
- Known hypersensitivity to silicone
If in doubt, consult your treating physician or urologist!
Possible side effects
During use you may experience:
- Mild squeezing sensation (a normal sign of operation)
- Temporary redness of the skin under the ring
- Rarely: numbness, pain (with excessively long use)
- Colour change due to blood pooling—in this case remove immediately
Stop use and consult your physician if you notice any unusual symptoms.
Important: Use only with water-based lubricants! Silicone- or oil-based lubricants can damage the ring material.
Package contents
- 1 x Backup Ring silicone constriction ring
- User manual
Cleaning and maintenance
After each use wash with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Rinse thoroughly and let dry on a clean towel or in air. Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Avoid alcoholic or solvent-based cleaners—these can damage the silicone.
Scientific background and sources
The use of penile constriction rings (constriction rings) and vacuum erection devices (VED / VCD) is recognised by the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines for the treatment of erectile dysfunction—both standalone and as an accessory to vacuum devices. The mechanism of constriction rings is reduction of venous outflow, which supports maintenance of the erection.
Sources:
- Salonia A, Bettocchi C, Boeri L, et al. (2021). European Association of Urology Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health—2021 Update: Male Sexual Dysfunction. European Urology, 80(3):333–357. PubMed · DOI
- Yuan J, Hoang AN, Romero CA, et al. (2010). Vacuum therapy in erectile dysfunction—science and clinical evidence. International Journal of Impotence Research, 22(4):211–219. PubMed · DOI
- Pahlajani G, Raina R, Jones S, et al. (2012). Vacuum erection devices revisited: its emerging role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and early penile rehabilitation following prostate cancer therapy. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 9(4):1182–1189. PubMed · DOI
- Lewis RW, Witherington R. (1997). External vacuum therapy for erectile dysfunction: use and results. World Journal of Urology, 15(1):78–82. PubMed · DOI
Learn more
Helpi® Ring – ring with insertion sleeve →
Manual Erection System – vacuum erection device →
Non-drug treatment of erectile dysfunction →
Important note
This product description is for information only and does not replace medical advice. The Backup Ring constriction ring is intended as an adjunct to medical treatment for mild erectile dysfunction. If erectile dysfunction is persistent, severe, or has a sudden onset, always consult your treating physician or a urologist. Underlying causes may be cardiovascular, hormonal, neurological or psychological and should be investigated by a specialist.
The product is a CE medical device, compliant with MDR. Manufacturer: KESSEL medintim GmbH, Germany.
