Do Penis Pumps Really Work?

Let’s be honest — penis pumps aren’t exactly the coolest product around.

Their biggest cultural moment in the spotlight was likely in the 1997 movie Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery.

In one iconic scene from the film, when Powers has just been thawed out from being cryogenically frozen for decades and is retrieving his belongings, a penis pump (described as a “vacuum constriction device”) is plucked from the basket.

RELATED: How to Get a Big Penis, Explained

“That’s not mine!” he exclaims. “I don’t even know what this is, this sort of thing isn’t my bag, baby.” The scene continues to derive more and more laughs from his ownership of a penis pump, ultimately positioning the object as a cheap gag, and something Powers is ashamed of.

But the reality is, a penis pump can serve a serious purpose — or rather, multiple ones — that can potentially improve your sex life.

So, in order to better understand penis pumps and demystify them a little bit, AskMen spoke to a couple of sex experts. Here’s what they had to say:

What Is a Penis Pump?

A penis pump is a viable and safe treatment option for those who have difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection by reversing atrophy and pulling blood-flow into the penis.

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Erectile Dysfunction

Considering 50 percent of men experience erectile function problems by their middle-age and one in four men under 40 have reported erectile issues, it is an item you may benefit from becoming familiar with.

Additionally, penis pumps can also be used for enlargement, with men who use them reporting that they can make an erection up to one to three inches larger, and even 25 percent girthier.

The penis pump itself typically consists of a tube (often made of glass or plastic) that fits over the penis, a hand or battery-powered pump attached to the tube, and a constriction ring that fits around the base of the penis when erect.

Reports by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists found that between 56 percent and 67 percent of men who’ve used a penis pump report that it is effective.

The device is also believed to be a safer alternative to erectile dysfunction pills, which may cause hard side effects like fainting, headaches and blurred vision.

What Are the Risks of Using a Penis Pump?

Though considered one of the less risky treatments available for ED, there are still some minor risks to watch out for when using a penis pump.

Since the erection is not achieved naturally this way, the penis may be more purple in color (and a bit numb), but don’t fret — it happens.

“When vacuum erection devices (aka ‘penis pumps’) are misused, they can cause bruising, skin stretching and nerve damage that lowers sensation,” says Susan Bratton, a sex advisor and author of the Pump Guide.

These bruises are often painless and generally last a few days. To avoid damage, it is recommended you follow the safety guidelines provided with your pump.

If your particular device doesn’t come with instructions, Bratton suggests not using it. She also advises against using another item around the house (even novelty products found in many sex shops) as an alternative.

“Proper pumps are medical devices approved by the FDA for erectile dysfunction,” she says, remarking that jelqing (the act of manually stretching the penile tissue) is a dangerous, albeit popular alternative as men can bruise, overstretch and hurt their penises by jelqing too hard.

“A quality pump is an investment in reversing erectile dysfunction, restoring tissue that has atrophied due to lack of intimacy or illness and for penis enlargement.”

How to Properly Use a Penis Pump

Though you should still follow the instructions provided for each individual device, most penis pumps tend to work the same way.

Trimming or shaving any pubic hair near the base of your penis is suggested so that it doesn't get caught in the ring. Before using the pump, it's also a good idea to apply a lubricant to the penis so it doesn't pull when coming out.

Then, place the pump over your penis and pump the air out of the cylinder using a low vacuum pressure. Once the penis is erect, with the help of lubricant, release the vacuum and remove the pump.

“If the pump is left on too long or pumped too tightly, it can potentially harm the blood vessels and tissue in the penis,” says Dr. Steven McGough, Director of Research and Development at Women and Couples Wellness. “This can sometimes cause small blood vessels to bleed, resulting in small red spots called petechiae to form on the penis.”

Batton recommends using the pump every other day to allow for some rest and recovery. If you choose to pair your pump with a cock ring (which will help maintain a harder erection), limit use of the ring to 30 minutes — any longer than that can cut off circulation to your penis and cause serious harm.

Purchasing a Penis Pump

While some penis pumps are available without a prescription, it’s best to speak with a doctor before purchasing, as they can suggest a quality device that suits your specific needs.

Sure, there are some readily available online and in sex ads, but those might not be safe or effective.

RELATED: Investigating the Products Sold in Pornhub’s Pop-Up Ads

When searching for the right model for you, McGough suggests making sure your penis pump has a vacuum limiter, which keeps pressure from getting too high and harming your penis.

“Generally, you want a rubber opening at the bottom of the pump that can accommodate multiple penis sizes (diameter), a pump that is durable and reliable, and a quick-release valve for once you have achieved an erection,” he says.

Interested in getting your very own penis pump? Check out the options below recommended by professionals.

Penomet Premium

McGough recommends the Penomet Premium Package, which includes several different gaiters (60, 65, 70, 75, 80), a shower strap, a digital exercise handbook, a printed instructional booklet and a three-year warranty. Penomet crafts their product with the consumer in mind, following feedback from thousands of individuals and consumers. The interchangeable gaiter system allows users to safely increase the pressure for a comfortable experience.
$127 at Penomet.com

Premium Electric Pump System II

Bratton recommends this pump developed by a family-owned company that’s been in business for over 25 years. It’s designed to increase both girth as well as length as you put both your penis and testicles in the cylinder. Don’t worry, though, as Bratton assures the testicles are not harmed or enlarged by pumping. In fact, she says they benefit from the increased blood flow.
$439 at DrJoelKaplan.com

You Might Also Dig:

• Male Enhancement Products
• Penis Enlargement Surgery Is on the Rise
• Natural Size Enhancement