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Penis Pumps & Penis Enhancers

Dr. Lisa Lawless

Dr. Lisa Lawless, CEO of Holistic Wisdom
Clinical Psychotherapist: Relationship & Sexual Health Expert

Penis Enhancement ToysThe Purpose Of A Penis Pump

A penis pump is typically made from plastic and has a manual or motorized pump to provide suction to the penis. It creates a vacuum effect and engorges the penis with blood. They can also be used with a penis ring to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) to ensure that the blood pumped into the penis does not return to the body until ejaculation occurs.

Diseases such as diabetes or prostate cancer, physical injury, and the side effects of drugs can cause ED by reducing or preventing blood flow and nerve impulses to the penis. Penis pumps effectively treat sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or blood clotting problems. Almost all ED can be treated. Most treatments involve improving blood flow to the penis. Among them is the vacuum erection device.

Penis pumps are often used to treat ED as well as Peyronie's Disease (where the penis is bent). Men with this may experience pain when using a penis pump and should consult a physician before use.

Some men also use penis pumps to increase the size of their penis; however, most size increases are minor, and any significant gains are only temporary.

How To Use A Penis Pump

We highly recommend discussing using a pump with your physician before using one. Please understand that when using a penis pump, you need to be fully educated about how to use one, which type is best for you, and consider your unique health conditions should you have any.

Before you use your penis pump, the most important thing you need to find out is how the release valve works. It is vital to know how to release the suction, as the last thing you want to do is wait until you are in a situation where it is urgent that you get it off and then try and figure it out.

The rest is usually pretty self-evident. You put your penis in the pump, create an airtight seal at the base of your penis and use the pump to create suction. Typically, using a penis pump for 5-10 minutes is a reasonable amount of time to achieve desired results. A penis pump should generate an erection that lasts up to 30 minutes when aided by a penis ring.

Most penis pumps have a bulb or hand-held trigger that you manually use to create suction after your soft penis is put in the pump cylinder. Then once you have pumped it up to a comfortable setting, you can push the quick-release valve when ready to release the vacuum pressure.

Do Penis Pumps Work?

They can be quite effective at helping with erectile dysfunction, giving a firm erection for sexual activity, treating Peyronie's disease, and sometimes adding a slight increase in size. However, it is unrealistic to use penis pumps if one is looking to gain a few inches in penis size.


Why Do Most Penis Pumps Come with No Instructions?

Penis pumps manufactured by sex toy companies are sold as adult novelties to avoid all the red tape and costs of having them classified as medical devices. They often do not put instructions in with their products for legal reasons. Learn more about this in our guide: Why Are Sex Toys Called Adult Novelties?

Penis Pump Safety & Warnings

  • It is essential to use common sense when using a penis pump. Spending too long using a penis pump can damage the capillaries and bruise the penis, leaving you sore for a few days. In the worst-case scenario, it could permanently affect the tissue. We think it's wise, especially if you are first experimenting with a penis pump, to use it for only a few minutes and then let your blood flow normally.

  • We cannot stress enough that we recommend first speaking with your doctor about using a penis pump, as issues such as ED can signify that other health conditions need your attention. If you have specific questions, it may be best to consult with a urologist. Please see our guide: How To Talk To Your Doctor About Sex.

  • If there is any pain, you should not continue pumping. Pain is your body trying to get your attention to tell you something is wrong. Listen to it.

  • Red spots may appear on the surface of the penis when suction is applied too rapidly, so go slowly. Bruising may occur if pressure is held for too long.

  • You should also note that if you have an erection for more than four hours and cannot get it to go down, you will need to seek medical attention immediately.

  • Put them on and take them off slowly.

  • If you find swelling or pain, or if the genitals feel cold, take the penis pump off immediately.

  • Do not use them for more than 10-15 minutes at a time.

  • Do not use penis pumps if you have the following health conditions: a blood clotting disorder, peripheral vascular disease, or nerve disease.

  • In the case of bruising, pain, bleeding, or loss of sensation, check with a physician.

  • You can always contact the manufacturer if you have questions about a specific penis pump that is not on our site.

  • If the penis pump you purchase has something different on the box from the manufacturer, always use the manufacturer's suggestion, as they are the ones most knowledgeable about their specific product.

  • For the frugal or creative guy, it may occur to use a vacuum. Please don't. This is not the same level of suction, and it will cause broken blood vessels, bruising, and even a trip to the emergency room.

Reasons to Avoid Using a Penis Pump

  • Blood Thinners: Can lead to excessive bruising or bleeding.

  • Blood Disorders: Increased risk of complications such as bleeding or blood clots.

  • Recent Surgery: Particularly in the pelvic or genital area, as it may interfere with healing.

  • Peyronie’s Disease: May exacerbate symptoms or cause further injury.

  • Priapism: Men with a history of prolonged erections should avoid using a pump.

  • Genital Infection: Can worsen the infection or cause pain and discomfort.

  • Severe Diabetes: Increased risk of nerve damage and reduced sensation.

  • Cardiovascular Conditions: Can pose additional strain on the heart.

  • Varicose Veins in the Genitals: May aggravate the condition.

  • Skin Conditions or Infections: Can worsen irritation or spread infection.

  • Nerve Damage: Existing nerve damage can be aggravated, leading to further complications.

  • Uncontrolled Hypertension: Risk of exacerbating high blood pressure.

  • Prostate Conditions: May interfere with treatment or exacerbate symptoms of conditions like prostatitis or an enlarged prostate.

  • Hypersensitivity: Individuals with overly sensitive skin or allergies may experience discomfort or reactions.

  • Recent Injury: Especially to the genital area, as it can impede the healing process and cause further injury.

Penis Rings

Penis rings, also called cockrings, are often used with penis pumps. To learn more about them, please see our helpful guides:

Penis Traction

One product can be used as an alternative to pumps that uses what is referred to as penis traction. Penis traction works by steadily stretching the shaft of the penis, causing the cells to divide and multiply (cytokinesis), which promotes new and permanent tissue growth throughout the penis in a matter of weeks to enlarge the penis as well as assist with erectile dysfunction as well as Peyronie's Disease. Learn more about how penis traction works through our guide: Peyronie's Disease: Natural Treatments.

Penis Enlargement

If you are looking to learn more about penis enlargement, please see our helpful guides:

Erectile Dysfunction

If you have erectile dysfunction (ED) issues, please see our helpful guide for more information. This includes information about hollow dildos, strap-on dildos and many unique, and effective options: Sex Toys For Erectile Dysfunction.

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