Medical illustration of a vacuum pump
Men's Medical Vacuum Pumps
Vacuum pump therapy using a Vacuum Erection Device (VED) has been a recognised treatment option for men with partial Erectile Dysfunction (ED). It is also used as a therapeutic option for certain types of Peyronie's Disease.
In simple terms, for a man to achieve an erection, blood flow to the penis is essential. However, in men with erectile problems, this blood flow may be insufficient for a sustainable erection. A vacuum pump can help create an erection by drawing blood into the penis, potentially enabling sexual activity.
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How does a vacuum pump work?
A Vacuum Erection Device (VED) works by creating a vacuum around the penis. The device consists of a hollow tube, where the penis is placed, and air is pumped out of the tube to create a vacuum effect. This process draws blood into the penis, helping to achieve an erection.
A vacuum pump can help increase blood flow to the penis, which may have some benefits for erectile function. However, its primary use is often to create an erection before sexual activity. After using the pump, an elastic ring is typically applied at the base of the penis to help maintain the erection during intercourse. The ring should be removed after intercourse is completed.
Vacuum pumps are also used by men with Peyronie's Disease (PD). In PD, traction devices are often prescribed to help reduce curvature and improve penile alignment over time.
Types of Vacuum Pumps
There are various types of vacuum erection devices. The most common type is an air pump, which creates a vacuum seal around the penis to draw blood into it, as described above. These devices are generally more affordable than other treatment options.
- Water Pumps or Hydro Pumps, which use water pressure to aid in the erection process
- Manual Pumps, where men can control the pressure in the cylinder by squeezing a bulb located on the end of a hose
- Electric Pumps, which work in the same way but are battery operated.
It's important to note that while there is a wide range of vacuum pumps available, not all are recommended by healthcare professionals. Some pumps may be suggested by doctors for user reassurance, but many are marketed as sex aids rather than medical devices, and their quality and effectiveness can vary.
One pump often recommended by healthcare providers, including ourselves, is the Soma Erect Pump. It offers both manual and battery-operated pump heads and is considered a reliable option for those seeking a non-invasive treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Find out more how MansMatters can help you.
Contact us for a complimentary 20-minute consultation with our men's health specialists.
Arrange a Free Telephone Consultation
Book a Treatment or Diagnosis
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Effectiveness of Men's Health Vacuum Pumps
Vacuum pumps can be an effective aid for men with erectile dysfunction and may be used alongside other treatments. However, it's important to use these devices properly to avoid potential discomfort or injury. Improper use can cause temporary side effects such as pain or bruising, so it's essential to follow the correct instructions to ensure safety.
Vacuum Pumps for Peyronie's Disease
Vacuum pumps can be an effective aid for men with erectile dysfunction and may be used alongside other treatments. However, it's important to use these devices properly to avoid potential discomfort or injury. Improper use can cause temporary side effects such as pain or bruising, so it's essential to follow the correct instructions to ensure safety.
medical illustration of focused shockwave therapy
Penile Vacuum Pumps FAQs
What are Penile Vacuum Pumps?
Penile vacuum pumps are devices that aid men in getting erections. Some pumps are used as a sex aid, while others are used as a treatment method for men who struggle to get an erect penis.
Does a Vacuum Pump Work?
Vacuum pumps work by creating a vacuum around the penis allowing blood to be pulled into it and providing an erection. Once this is achieved a constriction ring must be applied to the base to sustain the erection.
Are There Different Types of Vacuum Pumps?
Yes, but they do not all work in the same way, and some are marketed by sex shops and catalogues as sex aids. Some of the cheaper pumps are often not suitable as a viable treatment option.
Are Vacuum Pumps Effective?
Some vacuum pumps are effective in facilitating erections and many men who struggle in this area find that they benefit by using these devices and they are easy to use. However, the drawback is that do not allow for spontaneous sexual intercourse as the penis needs to be prepared to make it sufficiently rigid to enable penetration. Many men and their partners find this off-putting.
Can Penile Vacuum Pumps Be Used for Peyronie’s Disease as Well?
Vacuum pumps can be used as a therapy option to train penile curvature and slowly minimise it. However, not all types of pumps are suitable for PD. As PD is a complex issue, only pumps which are recommended by specialists should be used.
Do You Suggest Your Patients Use These Pumps?
Several of our patients have experienced positive results after using pumps alongside our treatment protocols. We first evaluate our patient’s condition carefully and then recommend penis pumps to those who we feel may benefit through these. We believe that the best pump on the market is the Soma Erect Pump for ED.
Knightsbridge
Richmond
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