Penis Pumps

A penis pump is a clear cylinder with a seal at the open end and a way of drawing the air out: a hand bulb, a trigger handle, or a small electric motor. The vacuum pulls blood into the penis, which swells, hardens and looks larger while the pressure is on. Men use pumps as a warm-up before sex, for the sight of it, for a temporarily fuller erection, and some for training over months. This guide explains the types, how to pick a size, and how to use one without hurting yourself.

Manual, trigger or electric

A bulb pump is the cheapest and simplest: squeeze to pump, press the valve to release. A trigger pump gives finer control and less hand fatigue, and the better ones have a gauge so you can repeat what worked. Electric pumps do the work at the press of a button and usually stop at a set pressure, which is the safest option for beginners and the most comfortable for long sessions. Water pumps, used in the shower, are gentler again because water does not compress.

Size

The cylinder should be wider than the erect penis by a centimetre or so and longer by a few centimetres; too wide and the seal is poor, too narrow and the pumping pinches. Most cylinders are 6 to 7 centimetres across and 20 to 25 long, which fits most men. Measure the erect circumference and length before ordering rather than guessing.

Using it safely

Trim or shave the base so the seal sits on skin, put a little water based lubricant on the rim, and pump slowly, a few strokes at a time, waiting between them. Stop at the first sign of pain, cold, numbness or a purple colour and release the valve. Ten to fifteen minutes is enough for a session; longer does not do more and risks bruising. Never pull the cylinder off under vacuum, and never fall asleep in one.

Pumps and rings

A cock ring slipped on after pumping holds the blood in and keeps the erection for sex; some pumps come with one. Wear the ring for twenty to thirty minutes at most.

Care

Rinse the cylinder with warm water after use, wash the seal with mild soap, and dry everything before storing; keep the gauge and any motor dry. Replace a seal that has cracked or gone stiff.

Frequently asked questions