Penis Pumps: How to Use Benefits Risks Tips
A penis pump can help people with moderate erectile dysfunction have an erection. It’s important to use penis pumps correctly to reduce your risk of injury. All
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Medically reviewed by Roger Bielinski, MD FACS — Written by James Roland — Updated on November 2, 2024A penis pump uses negative air pressure to engorge the blood vessels in your penis to help you develop an erection. Using the pump as directed is essential to prevent injury and other unwanted side effects.
A penis pump is also known as a vacuum pump or a vacuum erection pump. The device consists of:
- a tube that fits over your penis
- a seal or ring that fits around the base of your penis
- a battery-powered or hand-powered vacuum pack that removes air from the tube, triggering an erection
A penis pump may not be the right choice for someone with mild erectile dysfunction (ED), and it may not be effective for severe ED.
But if you’ve been diagnosed with moderate ED, a penis pump may be a nondrug treatment option to consider.
How do you use a penis pump?
Using a penis pump may seem a little awkward at first, but it’s a fairly simple device to operate.
- Start by placing the tube over your penis. You may want to use a lubricant to avoid irritation from the tube.
- If the pump is battery-powered, turn it on, or use the hand pump to start removing air from inside the tube.
- The change in air pressure will cause blood to start engorging the blood vessels in your penis. It may take a few minutes for you to develop an erection.
- You can then release the pressure, remove the tube, and engage in sexual activity. Most penis pump systems include a cock ring or constriction ring that you wear at the base of your penis. It’s meant to help maintain your erection by limiting the flow of blood from your penis.
Once you have an erection, you can place the ring around the base of your penis and then remove the tube. Keep the ring in place, but for no more than 30 minutes, as it could affect blood flow and harm your penis.
What are the benefits of using a penis pump?
Penis pumps are effective at producing erections for the majority of users. The duration depends on the individual, but 30 minutes or so may be expected.
The devices are generally safe and have none of the side effects that can accompany ED medications. It’s also noninvasive, compared with penile implants, which require surgery.
A penis pump is usually less expensive in the long run than medications or other treatments because it can be used repeatedly without any recurring costs.
A penis pump has the added advantage of being effective after procedures, such as prostate surgery or radiation therapy for prostate cancer.
One other benefit of a penis pump is that it can be used along with ED pills or other treatments without any additional risk. For some people, regular use of a penis pump may help lead to more naturally occurring erections.
Are there side effects or risks to using a penis pump?
Most people with moderate ED can use a penis pump safely, though if you take a blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin (Coumadin), you may face a higher risk of internal bleeding complications.
Blood disorders that put you at risk for bleeding events or blood clots may prevent you from using a penis pump safely.
It’s important that you carefully follow the directions that come with the pump. Too much air pressure in the tube can injure your penis.
There’s also a chance of mild bleeding under the surface of your skin. That can leave small red spots, or petechiae, on your penis.
It can be used as frequently as your body responds to the treatment. Some people may be able to use one multiple times in one day, while others may need to use it less often.
What to look for when choosing a penis pump
There are many types of these devices on the market, many of which are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or by any health agency.
These over-the-counter (OTC) penis pumps can be purchased at drug stores, novelty sex shops, and online. However, because they are not FDA-approved, they may not be safe or effective.
When choosing a penis pump, be sure it has a vacuum limiter. This feature makes sure the air pressure inside the tube doesn’t get too strong, which could potentially injure your penis.
The size of the ring that fits around the base of your penis is also important. It needs to be tight enough to work but not too tight that it’s uncomfortable. You may need to try different sizes to find the right one.
You may see ads in magazines and online or see vacuum devices in stores that promise to enlarge your penis. There is no evidence that such devices are effective. You may risk injuring your penis using one.
Do you need a prescription to purchase a penis pump?
If you’re interested in purchasing a penis pump, consult with a healthcare professional. A prescription will ensure that you obtain a penis pump that’s approved by the FDA.
Not all pharmacies carry these devices, however, so you may want to call around to find a store that sells them. A urologist or other healthcare professional may know of pharmacies in your area where FDA-approved penis pumps are available.
How much does a penis pump typically cost?
Costs vary depending on the manufacturer and the features of the device. Pumps with extra features or accessories tend to be more expensive.
Because a penis pump is a recognized treatment for ED, many insurance companies will cover at least part of the expense. If you have insurance and are unsure about coverage, contact your insurance provider directly.
The bottom line
A penis pump can be a safe, effective, and accessible non-drug treatment for ED. If you have questions about whether a penis pump is an option for you, consult with a healthcare professional to learn more.
How we reviewed this article:
SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.- Beaudreau SA, et al. (2020). Satisfaction with a vacuum constriction device for erectile dysfunction among middle-aged and older veterans.https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07317115.2020.1823922
- Dell’Atti L, et al. (2024). Vacuum erection device plus once-daily tadalafil improve clinical outcomes after extracorporeal shock wave therapy in men affected by erectile dysfunction associated with Peyronie’s disease.https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/14/9/1162
- Erectile dysfunction (impotence). (2023).https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/
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SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.- Beaudreau SA, et al. (2020). Satisfaction with a vacuum constriction device for erectile dysfunction among middle-aged and older veterans.https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07317115.2020.1823922
- Dell’Atti L, et al. (2024). Vacuum erection device plus once-daily tadalafil improve clinical outcomes after extracorporeal shock wave therapy in men affected by erectile dysfunction associated with Peyronie’s disease.https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/14/9/1162
- Erectile dysfunction (impotence). (2023).https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/
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