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Penis Pump
Penis Pump Urologist services offered in Beverly Grove, Los Angeles, CA
A penis pump is called a Vacuum Erectile Device by urologists and can be a tool to help recover from erectile dysfunction. At Comprehensive Urology, we us erectile vacuum devices as one component of a complete ED treatment plan that includes shockwave therapy for ED, medications, a full diagnostic work-up. If you or a loved one experiences erectile dysfunction on a regular basis, resulting in stress, anxiety, or relationship problems, there are numerous treatment options available. There are numerous factors that may contribute to male impotence and it is important to be evaluated by an experienced and dedicated urologist.
The urologists at Comprehensive Urology have extensive training and experience treating male sexual dysfunction. We understand that addressing erectile issues can be intimidating, but our professional, compassionate team ensure that each and every patient receives confidential reliable treatment. Book an appointment today with Kia Michel, MD reclaim your sexual confidence.
Table of Contents
Do I Need a Penis Pump?
While there is evidence that shows that a penis pump can help address erectile dysfunction or micropenis conditions, men who are hesitant to ask for help often take matters into their own hands by buying a penis pump without proper guidance. Penis pumps can be part of a comprehensive solution to erectile dysfunction or penile enlargement, however, they aren’t a replacement for a proper assessment by a board-certified urologist. Dr. Kia Michel at Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills recommends a combination of effective therapies that include the following options:
Shockwave Therapy (Low-intensity Shockwave Therapy)
Botox Penile Injections
Pulsed PRP Injections (Platelet Rich Plasma Injections)
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Having a proper diagnosis by a professional to identify the reasons behind erectile dysfunction is crucial to safely and effectively resolving the condition. For instance, if a man has low testosterone (Low-T) after receiving a hormone evaluation, a penis pump won’t address the testosterone deficiency and won’t yield any lasting results. This is why a combination of therapies is often used, as multiple factors can be causing decreased performance during intercourse.
Sometimes men have damaged their penis which can lead to erectile dysfunction. In these cases, the blood vessels in the penis are hampered by scar tissue from the trauma resulting from the injury. Using a penis pump without a proper diagnosis of a penile fracture can end up inflicting more damage and make the condition worse.
If you notice a bend in your penis, you may have Peyronie’s Disease or Bent Penis, which happens when a plaque forms on one side of the penis. This is often the result of physical trauma to the penis that occurs in about 10% of men. Fortunately, this condition is treatable, however, waiting to treat Peyronie’s Disease can lead to some of the changes becoming irreversible. This is why asking for help is the right thing to do for the sake of your sexual longevity.
If you’re considering buying a penis pump, the first step is to have a confidential consultation with a urologist to assess what you actually need to resolve your:
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common sexual problems that many men encounter in their lives. Erection issues can lead to low self-esteem, embarrassment, stress, anxiety, and an unsatisfactory sex life. While age is a common cause of erectile dysfunction in men, it isn’t the only factor that contributes to the condition. There are a variety of mental, physical, and emotional factors that can cause erectile dysfunction. These include:
- Peyronie’s Disease
- Low testosterone
- Prostate cancer treatment
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Anxiety
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alcoholism
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
These factors can make it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection but fortunately, it is possible to treat erectile dysfunction. Read our Detailed Erectile Dysfunction Guide.
Penis Pump Q&A
What is a Penis Pump for ED?
A penis pump, also known as a vacuum erection device is a device used to treat erectile dysfunction by helping a man achieve and maintain an erection. It is an external pump that is used to help the penis become erect, while the attached band helps maintain the erection for a prolonged period of time. The device works as a simple, non-invasive treatment that can increase a man’s ability to have sexual intercourse.
Do Penis Pumps Work?
Penis pumps are a popular treatment option many men use when they struggle to achieve and maintain an erection. Several reports suggest that vacuum erectile devices can work to help men get an erection that’s firm enough to have sex. A 2019 study showed that men who suffered from Peyronie’s disease that used a penis pump 30 to 90 minutes per day experienced significant improvements in the curvature of their penis, the length, as well as in erectile function.
Another study in 2010 found that men who complained of having a “short penis” wore a penis enlargement device for 4-6 hours per day for the first two weeks of the trial, and 9 hours per day until the end of the third month experienced a noticeable increase in their penile length, as well as an enhanced girth of their penis.
How a Penis Pump Helps With Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction may make it difficult for a man to get or maintain an erection, as well as reduce a man’s sexual desire. There are many reasons why ED may occur, and these include:
- Physical: Obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other physical conditions have been linked to ED symptoms. Digestive and kidney diseases can also play a role.
- Psychological: Depression, anxiety, stress, and other psychological issues may cause ED and other forms of sexual dysfunction.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking and other tobacco use may restrict blood flow to the veins and arteries, leading to chronic medical conditions that cause ED.
- Medications: Antidepressants, antihistamines, and other medications may be used to treat high blood pressure, pain, or other medical conditions, but they also may interfere with a man’s ability to get and maintain an erection.
- Drug and Alcohol Use: Excessive drug and alcohol use may cause long-lasting health problems that contribute to ED.
- Injury: Past damage to nerves or arteries that control erections may result in ED symptoms.
Vacuum Erection devices sometimes provides an effective ED treatment that enables men to maintain an erection that lasts long enough to engage in sexual intercourse. On average, men can use a penis pump to create an erection in less than 3 minutes. A penis pump also provides a non-invasive ED solution with minimal side effects.
How Does a Vacuum Penis Pump Work?
A vacuum penile pump includes three components:
- Cylinder: A man’s penis is inserted into the cylinder, and air is pumped out of the cylinder to create a vacuum that increases blood flood to the penis’ shaft. This ultimately causes the penis to swell and become erect.
- Pump: The pump is used in conjunction with the cylinder to create a vacuum that results in an erection. It may be motorized or manual and attached directly to the end of the penis.
- Tension Band: Also referred to as a constriction ring, the tension band is placed on the cylinder and fastens around the penis. The tension band prevents blood from exiting the penis during an erection.
Penis pumps, sometimes called a vacuum constriction device or an erectile dysfunction pump, is a cylindrical device (a plastic tube) that is used to get and maintain an erection by drawing blood into the penis with vacuum suction. While you can find a battery powered pump, a penis pumps are normally manually operated with a hand pumped bladder. The pump is a non-invasive, FDA approved treatment option that may be combined with other erectile dysfunction treatments, such as oral medication. Vacuum devices are proven to be effective for men who experience erectile dysfunction as a result of physical or psychological factors.
In most cases, men can typically achieve a full erection within a few minutes of using the vacuum device and can maintain an erection for up to 30 minutes with the assistance of a constriction ring. The ring is placed around the base of the erect penis to maintain penile blood engorgement until after sexual activity.
At CU, our urologists can provide insights into a wide range of vacuum penile pumps. They also can provide vacuum penile pump recommendations and in-depth instructions to teach patients how to use a penis pump.
How to Use a Penis Pump
Using a penis pump doesn’t require many steps and is simple with the proper guidance. A penis pump works by being placed over the penis and pumped by hand or automatically by battery. The pumping motion creates a vacuum that draws blood into the shaft of the penis, causing it to become erect. Once the penis is fully erect, you can place a band or constriction ring over the base of it to keep the blood inside. Fortunately, using a penis pump is quite simple and only requires a few steps.
To use a penis pump, first, apply a water-based lubricant all along the shaft and base of the penis. Then, place the plastic tube over your penis and use the pump to help create a vacuum inside of the tube. Depending on the type of penis pump you’re using, you may have to manually pump it. Once your penis is erect, place the band around the base of your penis to help maintain the erection. Finally, remove your penis from the tube.
Who Can Use Vacuum Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction
Vacuum devices are often prescribed as an initial treatment option for erectile dysfunction because they are non-invasive and affordable. A penis pump is an ideal option for men who may be experiencing erectile dysfunction as a result of physical factors, such as diabetes, or nerve damage due to spinal cord injury or prostate cancer treatment, or as a result of psychological factors, including performance anxiety. Additionally, men who are ineligible for ED medications, whether due to taking nitrate drugs or alpha blockers, can have success using a vacuum device.
A vacuum device is not advised from those who have significant penile curvature as the cylindrical pump may cause too much strain on the penis. Other conditions in which a vacuum device may be ineffective or even harmful include:
- Priapism (painful, prolonged erection)
- Numbed penile sensation due to nerve damage
- Blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia
- Use of blood thinning medication
If you are considering erectile dysfunction treatment, it is in your best interest to discuss your concerns and goals with a board-certified urologist with experience treating male sexual dysfunction. There are numerous options available, but it is important to have the insight and guidance of a medical professional to ensure that you achieve the best possible results efficiently and safely.
The Advantages of ED Vacuum Pumps
Compared to other methods for treating impotence, the advantages of vacuum pumps include:
- Non-Invasive: A penis pump does not require surgery or medication, and it can be used any time a man wants to create an erection during sexual intercourse.
- Fast Results: Men can use a penis pump to create an erection in just minutes.
- Easy to Use: A penis pump features a user-friendly design, and it generally won’t take long for a man to learn how to use this device to get and maintain an erection.
- Affordable: The cost of a penis pump may be lower than the cost associated with ED surgery or medication.
- Low Maintenance: A penis pump typically requires little to no long-term maintenance and will continue to perform consistently for an extended period of time.
- Low Risk of Complications: Whereas ED surgery and medications may cause a wide range of immediate and long-term side effects, there are few side effects associated with penis pumps. Additionally, penis pump side effects are usually temporary and disappear on their own.
- Can Be Combined with Other Erectile Dysfunction Treatments: A penis pump can be used safely in conjunction with surgery, medication, and other ED treatments like Shockwave Therapy, Botox Penile Injections, and PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) injections.
A Comprehensive Urology sexual specialist can help a patient compare and contrast a penis pump and other ED treatments. Plus, a CU urologist can provide recommendations and insights to help a patient address his ED symptoms both now and in the future.
Risks and Side Effects of Vacuum Constriction Devices
Using a vacuum device can take a bit of trial and error, particularly when it comes to learning how to operate the pump, wearing a constriction ring, and achieving the desired results. As with any medical device, vacuum penis pumps have a degree of risk and can cause the following side effects in some men:
- Bruising
- Penile pain
- Numb or cold sensation
- Bluish skin tone
- Petechiae – red dots of blood under the surface of the skin
- Risk of bleeding when taking blood-thinning medications
- Risk of blood clots if you have a blood disorder, such as sickle cell anemia
- Painful ejaculation
- Sensation of trapped semen
- Pressure-induced injury
Fortunately, the majority of men who use a prescribed vacuum device do not experience side effects, but may have to adjust to the awkwardness or manual coordination required to achieve an erection. It is not uncommon for men to have to adjust to the fact that a vacuum device erection may not feel like a natural or spontaneous erection, as the skin temperature is usually lower and the base or shaft is not as firm.
It is recommended that men only use a prescription vacuum device to ensure safety and effectiveness. Specially designed penis pumps that are intended for medical use are constructed to reach a limited level of pressure to ensure reduced risk of injury or side effects. Online companies may offer penis pumps that are not effective or safe, so it is important for patients to consult with a board-certified doctor for an FDA approved device.
Other Penis Enhancement Options
- Shockwave Therapy (Low-intensity Shockwave Therapy): This is an ED treatment that uses low-intensity radio waves to stimulate tissue to increase blood flow to the penis. This helps the penis maintain an erection and can also stimulate nerve endings, making the penis more sensitive during sexual intercourse.
- Exercises: Penis enhancement exercises often stimulate blood flow to the penis and help increase penis size and girth. While the results are not extreme or as immediate, this can be a safe way to improve both function and size. Jelqing is one of the most common penis enhancement exercises. It consists of rapid pulling of the penis to increase its length. However, be sure to speak to a specialist before attempting this exercise! Additionally, penis enhancement exercise programs may be used that are tailored individually to a patient to best suit their unique needs.
- Stretching: Stretching with weights has been shown to promote penis enlargement. It’s important to keep in mind that this exercise also puts an individual at risk of bursting blood vessels and tearing penile tissue. The risks often outweigh the rewards when done without expert input or guidance.
- Surgery: Two penis enhancement surgeries are available: lengthening and widening the penis. During a lengthening procedure, a surgeon cuts the ligament that links the penis to the pelvic bone. Doing this allows more of the penis shaft to become visible outside of the body. Comparatively, during a widening procedure, a surgeon implants fat, silicone, or tissue grafts. These implants can help address a penis that appears too thin. As with any surgery, there are certain risks with this method of treatment. It is important to speak with a specialist beforehand to fully understand the implications of surgery.
We’re your one-stop shop for male cosmetic procedures, including:
- PPP Removal
- Scrotox
- PRP Penile Injections
- Shockwave Therapy for ED
- Pulse Wave Therapy for Peyronie’s Disease
At Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, we’ve helped many men reclaim their vitality and intimacy in their relationships. Reach out to find out more about our services and how we can help today.
Learn more about penis pumps near me today.
Kia Michel, MD
Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel's expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shockwave Therapy for ED and penile injections.
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