Penis Pumps

Penis Pumps

When it comes to men’s sexual health, there are various tools, medications and procedures available to address concerns such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and maintaining penile health and function. One such tool that has gained popularity and recognition is the penis pump. Often used for both preventative maintenance and as a treatment for ED, penis pumps offer a range of benefits that can positively impact men’s sexual health and overall well-being.

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, decreased sexual desire and an unsatisfactory sex life. While age is a common cause of erectile dysfunction in men, it certainly 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 but are not limited to:

• Physical: Obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, Peyronie’s Disease, low testosterone, prostate cancer and its treatment, heart disease, high cholesterol, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), Parkinson’s Disease 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.

Treatments For Erectile Dysfunction

There are many treatment options to improve erectile dysfunction.  The best results typically occur when choosing a combination of therapies.

Therapies typically include the following:

Oral medications

Oral medications are the most common treatment for ED in the US and are called phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE-5s). PDE-5s increase blood flow to the penis and include: Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra), and Avanafil (Stendra). Oral medicines might not be safe or effective if you take nitrate medicines for chest pain, alpha-blocker medicines for an enlarged prostate or medicine that affects an enzyme called CYP3A4.

Testosterone

Testosterone plays a large part in sexual desire and a smaller but significant role in erectile function.  Ensuring optimal levels of testosterone is important when addressing erectile dysfunction.

Acoustic Wave Therapy

Acoustic wave therapy (also called low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT), Pulse Wave Therapy, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, ESWT, or Sound Wave Therapy) fights against the decrease of blood flow ot the penis that occurs in erectile dysfunction. This process uses non-invasive, low-intensity acoustic waves to cause neovascularization directly inside a penis. Neovascularization is the formation of new blood vessels. These new blood vessels improve blood flow encouraging stronger and longer erections. Acoustic wave therapy can also promote natural and spontaneous erections.  At Glendale Whole Health, we offer the Alma Duo.

Injectable medications

These medications are injected directly into the penis to increase blood flow.  Examples are Caverject, Trimix, Bimix and Quadmix.

Psychological counseling

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by anxiety, depression or stress.

Lifestyle modifications

Improving diet, exercise (especially aerobic), and reducing stress can help.

Surgery

A urologist can implant a device to make the penis erect.

Stem cell therapy

Preliminary studies and clinical trials have found that stem cell therapy could be an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. 

Vacuum Erectile Devices (VED) aka Penis Pumps

Penis pumps use a vacuum to draw blood into the penis. This can often help people achieve or maintain an erection.: 

Understanding penis pumps

Before delving into the benefits, it’s essential to understand what a penis pump is and how it works. A penis pump is a device consisting of a cylinder and a pump mechanism. The cylinder is placed over the penis, and the pump is used to create a vacuum, drawing blood into the penis and causing an erection. This process, known as vacuum erection therapy, helps in achieving and maintaining an erection suitable for sexual intercourse.

Benefits of penis pumps

Penis pumps offer a range of benefits for both preventative maintenance of penile function and as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. From improving blood flow and tissue health to providing a non-invasive and side-effect-free treatment option, penis pumps can be a valuable tool in men’s sexual health regimens. However, it’s essential to use them as directed and consult with a healthcare professional if experiencing persistent erectile issues. With proper use and guidance, penis pumps can contribute to a fulfilling and satisfying sex life for men of all ages.

How can use of penis pumps be preventative for penile health?

Improved Blood Flow

Regular use of a penis pump encourages blood flow to the penile tissues, which is essential for maintaining penile health. Just like any other muscle or tissue in the body, adequate blood circulation is crucial for optimal function. By promoting blood flow, penis pumps contribute to the overall health of the penile tissue, potentially reducing the risk of erectile issues in the future.

Keeps Tissues Elastic

Penile tissues can become less elastic over time due to various factors such as aging, poor circulation, or medical conditions. Using a penis pump on a regular basis helps stretch and exercise these tissues, keeping them supple and responsive. This elasticity is crucial for achieving and maintaining erections.  Think of how it’s easier to fill a balloon after you stretch it—same concept!

Prevents Tissue Atrophy

Lack of regular erections can lead to tissue atrophy, where the penile tissues lose their strength and size. Penis pumps help prevent this by encouraging regular blood flow and engorgement of the penile tissues. By maintaining healthy tissue size and function, men can reduce the risk of future erectile problems.

How can the use of penis pumps treat ED?

Non-Invasive Treatment Option

Unlike some other treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as medications or surgery, penis pumps offer a non-invasive alternative. This makes them a preferred choice for men who prefer to avoid medications or invasive procedures.

Immediate Results

Penis pumps can provide relatively quick results compared to other treatments. Within a few minutes of use, many men experience an erection suitable for sexual activity. A constriction ring is placed around the base of the erect penis to maintain penile blood engorgement until after sexual activity. This immediate response can be beneficial for couples seeking spontaneous intimacy. 

No Medication Side Effects 

Some men may experience adverse side effects from erectile dysfunction medications, such as headaches, dizziness, or nasal congestion. With penis pumps, there are minimal side effects, usually limited to mild discomfort or bruising, which typically subside with regular use.

Improved Confidence

Dealing with erectile dysfunction can take a toll on a man’s self-esteem and confidence. By successfully using a penis pump to achieve and maintain an erection, men often report a boost in confidence and a more positive outlook on their sexual health.

Can penis pumps be used alone, or must they be used in combination with other ED therapies?

Penis pumps can yield wonderful benefits for ED and general health of the penis.  However, it’s important to have a full assessment to make sure that other issues are addressed, such as low testosterone and medical issues.

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.  (Not all pumps require use of a tension band.)

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.

Which brands of penis pumps does Glendale Whole Health offer?

Glendale Whole Health exclusively offers penis pumps by Dr. Joel Kaplan.  Dr. Kaplan is a pioneer of men’s products for sexual health and wellness and health.

How much do the pumps costs?

Manual pumps cost $250 and electric pumps cost $350.

What the difference between manual and electric penis pumps?

There are two types of vacuum pumps for ED-- electric and manual. The main difference between the two is how the vacuum is created.

Electric pumps use a battery or electricity-powered motor to create a vacuum. They typically come with a push-button control, making it easier to use for individuals with limited hand mobility or strength. Automatic pumps are generally more expensive than manual pumps, but they are easier to use and require less effort.

Manual pumps, on the other hand, rely on the user to manually create the vacuum by pumping a handle or bulb. They are usually less expensive than automatic pumps, and they do not require batteries or electricity. Manual pumps may be a good option for individuals who want to save money or prefer a more hands-on approach. However, they require more effort to use and may be more difficult for individuals with limited hand mobility or strength.        

How will I know what size pump to order?

Please use the guidelines below and tell us if you need size 1, 2, 3 or 4.

How often should I use the pump and for how long?  How will I know if I’m improving?

If you have received the P-Shot® or P-Shot-100®/Priapus Toxin®, we recommend that you use your pump for 10 minutes twice a day for six weeks beginning the day you receive your PRP treatment, and then 2-3 times a week.  Dr. Kaplan pumps come with a training guide, and PumpStart, an erection fitness app

Will regular pump use increase penis size?

Many men report an increase in penis length and/or girth with regular use of penis pumps.  This is not guaranteed and results vary.

How can I get started using a penis pump?

If you are interested in using a penis pump, the best thing to do is to come in for a consultation to create the best treatment plan for you.

Ready to improve your sexual health?   Click here to book your appointment now or call (818) 551-0464!