Using a Penis Pump

Discovered in 1874 by American physician John King, many versions have been invented but it wasn't until the 1960's that vacuum erection devices (VED's) / penis pumps became popular, with the first patent granted in 1974. A medical model was FDA approved in the US in 1982.

Vacuum erection devices work by generating a vacuum by slowly taking out part of the air within the cylinder (technically producing a negative pressure within it). This low pressure causes both arterial and venous blood to flow into the erectile chambers of the penis, causing an erection. Once achieved, the erection can be held by the penis itself or with the aid of a constriction ring, which restricts the flow of blood back out of the penis.

Most devices consist of a pump (either manual or battery powered) on the end of a clear cylinder. Devices with a manual pump require two-handed operation – one to pump, and the other to hold the cylinder in place against the body to ensure a seal is maintained.

Battery operated machines, like the Androvacuum (sold here) can be operated one handed, as the pump button is located so the positioning hand can operate it easily. This can be very helpful to men with conditions that affect hand dexterity or strength.

A constriction ring is sometimes included with the device or can be purchased separately. The ring is initially placed on one end of the cylinder, and the pump is connected to the other.

After adequate penile rigidity has been obtained, if sex is to follow the constriction ring is slid down the cylinder onto the base of the penis. The vacuum is released, the cylinder is removed and the erection remains.

 ** VERY IMPORTANT - A CONSTRICTION RING SHOULD NOT BE LEFT ON THE PENIS FOR MORE THAN 30 MINUTES **

 You should not use a pump with a constriction ring without checking with your GP if:

• You are using blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders
• You have diminished penile sensation
• You have significant penile curvature
• You have a history of priapism (prolonged erection) or are at risk of developing it
• If you have Peyronie’s disease and / or the curve in your penis would make insertion into a penis pump difficult, traumatic or painful.

When used correctly with low pressure, VEDs have few side effects. These may include penile numbness and / or pain, a feeling of penile coldness, and bruising. You should not use them if you have bleeding disorders and or problems with priapism (prolonged erection). VED's are generally considered safe and are well accepted for ED associated with a variety of conditions.

Some men complain that they experience a hinge effect, where the penis is hard beyond where the ring sits, but goes soft inside the body, making it hard to control the direction of your thrusts. It is important to place the ring as close to the base of the penis as you can.

Patients who were not satisfied, or who discontinued use of the device, cited premature loss of tumescence and rigidity, pain or discomfort as reasons. A constriction ring can also interfere with ejaculation, with the sensation of orgasm happens but the ring stops the ejaculate from being expelled. Research shows that training and support contribute significantly to patient satisfaction and continued use.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please contact me (Lynda Carlyle at lynda@lyndacarlyle.com or phone 0424 264 288) to arrange an appointment for coaching and trouble-shooting if you have problems with using VED's or constriction rings.

I recommend you first try using a penis pump on your own, as practice may be required to get comfortable with their use, especially if you are also using a penis ring. Allow yourself time to get the hang of combining the two, so you are not frustrated or disappointed. The penis is often sensitized as a result of using a pump, and until you are experienced, it might be best to wait a few hours before having sex.