Penis Pumps for Erectile Dysfunction - Fact vs Fiction
According to our comprehensive blog about erectile dysfunction, over 50% of men report some degree of ED. Because it can be an uncomfortable issue to discuss, many men turn to at-home treatments to address erectile dysfunction issues. Additionally, some may be looking for less expensive options to what they imagine are higher cost treatments - such as low-intensity shockwave or PRP - offered by doctors. Some men turn to penis pumps (i.e. vacuum erection devices) to facilitate or enhance their erections. And while some may find at-home devices offer some benefits - it is important to understand their true capabilities as well as potential risks and precautions.
Penis Pumps For Erectile Dysfunction - What They Are and How They Work
A penis pump, also known as vacuum erection devices, uses vacuum pressure to draw blood into the penis, encouraging an increase in arterial inflow. The blood fills small vessels in the penis, causing them to swell so the penis gets temporarily bigger and firmer. A constriction ring can be placed around the base of the penis to help retain blood flow and firmness for a longer, more sustainable erection. In our clinic, we coach patients to use a vacuum erection device as an exercise which does not require using a ring.
A certain amount of mechanical dexterity is required to use these devices effectively, but once men become comfortable with using the vacuum and restraining rings many men can create an erection sufficient for penetration and sexual intercourse. A number of devices are available for purchase over the counter. Although the initial dropout rate may be as high as 50 percent, long-term satisfaction of patients and partners has been widely reported.
Penis Pump Benefits
Can be used before sex as an exercise - like going to the gym - straining and stretching the vasculature - exercise vasculature and bring blood into penis
Many anecdotal reports of increased length and girth
Works well to sustain an erection during sex for the majority of men
If a man’s health deteriorates (i.e. due to age or illness), nighttime erections can decline - which may be the starting point of ED. Using a vacuum device allows men to exercise their penis which may delay the onset of ED.
Helps inhibit abnormal collagen or scar formation
Helps increase tissue oxygen levels
Prevents cavernosal tissue fibrosis
Helps protect smooth muscle and endothelium
Can improve penis length for patients who have experienced atrophy or Peyronie’s curvature
Can be an effective tool immediately following prostate removal to support the development of erections
Precautions and Side Effects for Penis Pumps
Although penis pumps are safe for most men, there are some potential risks. For example:
Difficult or uncomfortable ejaculation. Some men have the feeling of trapped semen or difficulty with external ejaculation with the use of an occlusive ring at the base of the penis. When men are using the vacuum device as an exercise - with no occlusive ring - this is not an issue.
Unnatural-feeling erections. Penis pumps can cause an erection that doesn't feel natural or spontaneous. Men may experience a lack of firmness at the base of the penis, which can allow the penis to pivot or rotate more than it would with a natural erection.
Awkwardness. A pump can be used in two ways - as an exercise away from sex or as a device used immediately before sex to help sustain an erection. Use of a penis pump before sex requires understanding and patience from both the man and his partner. Regular use or practice may make things easier.
Pinpoint red dots or petechiae. Vacuum erection devices occasionally cause mild bleeding from capillaries under the skin’s surface. Blood thinning mediation, some supplements or too much pressure in the tube may exacerbate this.
Bruising or numbness. If it’s too tight or left on too long, the constriction ring may cause bruising or numbness.
Choosing a Penis Pump
Penis pumps are available without a prescription, however, not all pumps are created equally and there are a number of options based on a man’s personal preferences. We generally recommend devices produced by Pos-T-Vac but also recommend Gesivia Vacuum Erection Devices. Both companies make hydro penis pumps that can be used in the bath or shower or other “air” pumps intended for use on dry skin.
Hydro penis pumps - drives blood flow into the penis using water instead of air - does not require any lubrication and applies even distribution of pressure.
Air penis pumps - air-based pumps tend to be more convenient as you do not need to use them in the bath or shower. It is more realistic to use these before sex.
Penis Pumps vs. Shockwave Therapy
While penis pumps may be a good tool for men who are not responding to other interventions such as medication, these devices used before sex may be inconvenient and clumsy. While a vacuum device may be a helpful tool, most men benefit from working with a physician to determine what is causing their ED in order to find the most effective treatment option. You can read about this comprehensive approach to addressing erectile dysfunction here. Oftentimes, low intensity shockwave therapy can provide a longer-lasting, more effective solution to erectile dysfunction - allowing for more spontaneous, reliable erections and enhanced sexual function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Penis Pumps Work for Erectile Dysfunction?
Penis pumps can help address symptoms of erectile dysfunction in two ways. Used as an exercise device - penis pumps can help strengthen the penis by inhibiting abnormal collagen or scar formation, increasing tissue oxygen levels, preventing cavernosal tissue fibrosis and helping protect smooth muscle and endothelium. Used prior to sexual intercourse, penis pumps help draw blood into the penis, encouraging an increase in arterial inflow - enabling men with ED to achieve stronger, firmer erections.
Do Penis Pumps Work for Growth?
Penis pumps can temporarily help the penis grow in length and girth. They do not, however, cause the penis to permanently grow in size.
How Long Do Penis Pumps Work?
Penis pumps can cause a penis to become erect for approximately 30 minutes.
Do Penis Pumps Work Fast?
When using a vacuum erection device with a ring, men can recognize improved ability to maintain an immediate erection during sex. When using a vacuum device without a ring simply as an exercise for erectile health, men often appreciate benefits a few weeks after use