Erectile Dysfunction Pumps: How They Pump You Up For Sex

Written by the UPGUYS Editorial Team

Published on July 21, 2022

Did you know that there are over seven million adults in Canada over 65? Older men are more prone to sexual dysfunctions such as erectile dysfunction. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice intimacy with your partner. 

In fact, older men aren't alone. There are several reasons that young men may find it hard to get it up when they enter the bedroom.

The solution? Erectile dysfunction pumps have been circulating in the men's health industry. 

The goal behind penis pumps is to enhance blood flow and erections. At UPGUYS, we are here to break down how a penis pump works and if there is any truth behind its effectiveness. Keep reading for more information!

In this article, we talk about the following:

• What is erectile dysfunction?
• Erectile dysfunction treatments
• What are erectile dysfunction pumps?
• Penis pump types
• How to choose the right penis pumps
• How do penis pumps work?
• How to use a penis pump for the first time
• Penis pump effects and benefits
• Penis pump side effects
• Erectile dysfunction combination treatments
• Which PDE5 inhibitors are best for penis pumps?
• Is a penis pump right for you?

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a sexual dysfunction where a male may have difficulties with erection quality. This can present challenges in either getting or maintaining an erection for penetration. As you can imagine, this can place added strain on your sexual relationships or with your partner. 

Before diving into penis pumps, let's head back to sex ed for just a bit and address how to get an erection. Before you roll your eyes, it is essential that the process is well understood to better grasp how penis pumps work. 

UPGUYS Products: Order Generic Levitra Online in Canada

Erections occur when blood rushes into the penis, outweighing the amount of blood leaving the penis. Most often, this process occurs during sexual stimulation. However, it can also happen spontaneously, especially during puberty. 

There are two main anatomy pieces that play an important role in this process:

1. Corpus cavernosa
2. Corpus spongiosum

The corpus cavernosum span either side of the penile shaft. As blood flows into the corpus cavernosum, it creates an "erection." The corpus spongiosum has a smaller role. It allows for continuous blood flow and is located underneath the penis. 

If there are venous leaks or inadequate blood flow, it can inhibit erection quality. In return, men cannot achieve erection or rigidity before climaxing and ejaculating. 

Erectile Dysfunction Treatments

Unfortunately, many men may ignore their symptoms. However, erectile dysfunction could indicate more serious health problems relating to your vascularity. It is best that you follow up with a physician regarding chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. 

After visiting a physician, they may suggest lifestyle changes, including specific dieting and exercising. These two steps can help you lose excess weight and improve your overall health. As an example, some healthy foods you can start implementing for erection quality are:

• Watermelon
• Spinach
• Black coffee
• Salmon
• Blueberries

Ultimately, following heart-healthy diets can make a difference, especially when combined with aerobic exercise and strength training. Targeting glute and pelvic floor strengthening could help with firmer erections. Other treatment approaches include:

• Medication
• Penis or vacuum pumps
• Penile implants

Out of these three, medication is usually a gold-standard approach. Penile implants are invasive surgical methods that are the last resort for most patients. 

What Are Erectile Dysfunction Pumps?

A penis pump is exactly as the name sounds - it uses a pump mechanism that draws blood to the penile tissues. It is a plastic tube that has a hand or battery-operated pump. As you place the mechanism over the shaft of your penis, you will begin pumping. 

The tube acts as a vacuum, pushing air out and drawing the tissue in. In return, the sequencing helps bring blood flow into the penis. Once you have achieved an erection, you can remove the device and place a constriction ring at the base of your penis. 

UPGUYS Products: Order Generic Cialis Online in Canada

A penile ring is optional, but it can significantly improve erection quality. The ring constricts blood flow after an erect penis, helping you last longer.

However, only purchase penis rings through reliable manufacturers and read the instructions properly. To avoid complications and penile strangulation, medical experts recommend removing penis rings after thirty minutes. 

Penis Pump Types

You already read about two common penis pump types: battery-powered and manual. Other common penis pumps include air and water. Let's break down how these four operate. 

• Air pumps: usually include pre-set pressure and duration with a quick-release button
• Water pumps: some may include options for air or water pumping
• Manual pumps: are sometimes included as air pumps; they have manual cylinders you will squeeze
• Electric pumps: can come equipped with vibration and other accessories to enhance pleasure

Ultimately, the penis pump you choose will come down to cost, materials, and features. You should always research products before use, including things like a quick-release valve that can relieve uncomfortable pressure.

UPGUYS Products: Order Generic Viagra Online in Canada 

How To Choose the Right Penis Pumps

Choosing the right pump may come down to trial and error. There is no doubt that electric-powered pumps are more convenient than manual ones. Additionally, some may find water pumps more cumbersome and not ideal for frequent use. 

How Do Penis Pumps Work?

If you look at the physiology behind erections, it relies on maximum blood flow to the penile tissues while minimizing blood loss or outflow. Nitric oxide is one of the primary components behind improved blood flow. Research shows that there are two indicators that limit nitric oxide:

• Age
• Lifestyle

As you age, you are more likely to experience erection difficulties. Why?

You have a reduced number of smooth muscle cells and an increase in corpus cavernosum scarring. This limits blood flow and does not place enough pressure on the veins promoting outward flow. Most research experts suggest PDE5 inhibitor medications are some of the best tools for improving erection quality. 

UPGUYS Products: Order Vardenafil Online in Canada

Yet, they also suggested pelvic floor strengthening. In ways, vacuum devices promote better blood flow when used with other treatments. For example, you could focus on lifestyle adjustments and exercise while incorporating vacuum devices. 

If you still do not see organic results, you can talk to a practitioner about the use of medication. In general, you should give yourself a break from using vacuum pumps to avoid some of the adverse side effects. 

How To Use a Penis Pump for the First Time

Choosing a penis pump that limits vacuum pressure is the safest. Look for devices that have stricter regulations with government regulations. Although they may cost more, they will help you avoid penis injuries. 

Also, avoid penis pumps that fit over your scrotum. Penis pumps should only fit comfortably over the shaft. Ready to get started?

First, psychogenic impotence is a very real diagnosis. In men under 40, psychological factors are the primary reasoning behind erection difficulties. It can span from mild performance anxiety to depression or relationship issues. 

Ensure you seek the help you need if you have mental health concerns. Even simply talking with your partner beforehand can reduce your stress and facilitate a more enjoyable sexual encounter.

Now, here is a step-by-step guide you can follow for your vacuum device. Remember, you should always read the instruction manual carefully first.

1. Use lubricant
2. Insert your penis into the cylinder (move the scrotum out of the way)
3. Start the suction manually or electronically
4. Wait for a full erection
5. Remove the cylinder while holding the base of your penis
6. Slide the penis ring into place

At this point, you should be ready to go! If you notice bruising or lack of erection, don't repeat the steps above. Instead, set up a time to chat with your doctor. 

Penis Pump Effects and Benefits

Some of the benefits of penis pumps are improved erections. Contrary to popular belief, it does not enlarge your penis. 

Arguably, if a larger penis is your goal, penis enlargement surgery is one of the few options available. Results are controversial, and the recovery process is much longer (and costly) with the risk of losing sensation and experiencing surgical complications. 

Vacuum pumps are relatively cost-friendly. Usually, it requires an up-front purchase, and you shouldn't need to replace it until the battery or mechanism wears out. Contrarily, medications require prescription refills, and insurance won't always cover the costs. 

UPGUYS Products: Order Tadalafil Online in Canada

Penis pumps might also be ideal for men dealing with psychological issues surrounding erections. If you have anxiety or stress, it can worsen your erection problems. 

On the downside, penis pumps may cover underlying factors contributing to your erection difficulties. If you ignore your sudden changes in erection and purchase a vacuum pump, you could miss key signs of hypertension or cardiovascular disease. 

Penis Pump Side Effects

You should watch out for several side effects when using a penis pump. The constriction band can also pose a risk, including a lack of blood supply that leads to tissue necrosis. Only use the vacuum device and constriction band for thirty minutes. 

UPGUYS Products: Order Sildenafil Online in Canada

Additionally, to reduce side effects, do not use the vacuum-assisted device more than once hourly. Here is a more comprehensive list of some common penis pump side effects:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Lack of semen
• Petechiae

Men who have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners should talk to their doctor before using. Serious side effects could be priapism, which is a long-lasting and extremely painful erection that requires medical attention. 

If you notice bruising or red spots after use, wait until the symptoms have subsided before reusing the vacuum device. What happens if you continue having difficulty with erections? You may need to talk to your doctor about other options, such as medication. 

UPGUYS Products: Order Delay Spray (Non-Prescription)

Erectile Dysfunction Combination Treatments

Recent studies have found combination treatments are successful for some men dealing with erection difficulties. In a meta-analysis, researchers reviewed erectile dysfunction treatments such as:

• PDE5 inhibitors
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy
• Vacuum devices
• Antioxidants

The primary benefit researchers found included combining PDE5 inhibitors with alternative treatments. Shockwave therapy devices can be expensive or require you to visit a clinic.

Additionally, antioxidants by themselves are also not highly effective. Ultimately, if you want to maximize your results with vacuum devices, you may need to consider medication options.

Which PDE5 Inhibitors Are Best for Penis Pumps?

There isn't a specific PDE5 inhibitor indicated for penis pumps. Since PDE5 inhibitors increase blood flow to penile tissues, you should exercise caution using additional methods designed to improve inflow. 

In these instances, more isn't always better. As mentioned earlier, it can result in painful erections. There are three primary PDE5 inhibitors:

• Viagra
• Cialis
• Levitra

All three have generic options available to help lower costs. Viagra and Levitra function similarly. Cialis has the option for daily usage, which is ideal for men who have chronic erection issues and do not want to worry about taking a pill before intercourse. 

Otherwise, you will follow similar guidelines for all three. You will take one pill approximately 30 minutes to two hours before intercourse. These medications aren't for everyone and may interact with cardiovascular medications. 

Additionally, you still need sexual stimulation, and what you eat before could impact its effectiveness. That high-fat cheeseburger combined with Viagra might not yield the most effective results. 

Is a Penis Pump Right for You?

Erectile dysfunction pumps or vacuum pumps are ideal for men looking at alternative treatments. It can help you avoid the high costs of surgery or ongoing prescription refills. 

They should always be used with caution and under medical guidance. If you have erection problems, you should visit your doctor and get screened for diabetes or heart disease. Additionally, research shows that penis pumps shouldn't be used independently. 

Consider adding in healthy dieting, exercise, or other treatments. And if you found this guide helpful, visit the rest of UPGUYS' blog for the most up-to-date men's health information!