Since the invention of oral medications for Erectile Dysfunction (ED), the penis pump has been less popular. However, for people who have more spontaneous sex, a penis pump is still an option to consider. Especially if you have not had success with oral medications, or if you want a more affordable solution.
What is a Penis Pump?
A penis pump is a hollow plastic tube that is attached to a vacuum pump. The pump may be manual or battery operated. A silicone or rubber cover at the opening of the tube creates a seal around the penis, to allow the penis pump to create a vacuum.
How Does a Penis Pump Work?
You insert your penis into the plastic tube. You then switch on the pump or squeeze the manual pump with your hands. This creates a vacuum inside the pump which helps to draw blood into the penis. An erection is caused by blood flowing into the erectile tissues of the penis. To prevent losing the erection when the pump is removed from your penis, you may need to apply a constriction ring to the base of the penis, to help you maintain the erection.
Are Penis Pumps Safe?
Penis pumps are safe for most men to use. However, you should always ensure that you buy a good quality device and follow the instructions for use. Do not use a penis pump with any broken or sharp parts, as you could injure yourself. Penis pumps can also increase your risk of bleeding if you take any blood-thinning medication, or if you have a blood clotting disorder. It is also not recommended that you use a penis pump if you are taking pain-killers as this may prevent you from noticing if you experience any injury to your penis caused by the pump. You must also ensure that you don't leave the constriction ring on your penis for longer than 30 mins as this could cause damage to the penis.
Can You Use a Penis Pump With Other Treatments?
Many men find that the penis pump works best with other treatments, such as erectile dysfunction medications.
Do you need to shave your pubic hair to use a penis pump?
Depending upon the pump you use and the distribution and quantity of your pubic hair, you may need to shave the hair from the base of your penis, to ensure that you get a good seal from the penis pump. The penis pump works by creating a vacuum, so it may not be as effective if you cannot create a good seal around the base.
How to use a penis pump with your partner
It may feel awkward at first for you and your partner when using a penis pump. It may interfere with the mood and affect your partner’s libido. It is important that you and your partner communicate openly and are understanding of each other. It may help you to use the penis pump in the bathroom, rather than the bedroom, but it depends upon what you and your partner are most comfortable with. It is perfectly normal that it may take some time for you and your partner to adjust to using the penis pump. However, it should help you both to make the most of your sex life.
