Using Vacuum Pumps to Treat Erectile Dysfunction

There are various treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED). Prescription medications, like Viagra (sildenafil citrate), are clinically proven, dependable, and work pretty fast. Another option for ED patients is vacuum pumps, which we will explain in this post.

Vacuum pumps (aka penis pumps) are simple devices that are used, among other things, to help men with erectile dysfunction get and maintain an erection by creating a vacuum around the penis.

The device mainly consists of a hollow cylindrical tube (usually made of plastic), inside of which the user can insert his penis. The device also includes a vacuum pumping device that absorbs the air out of the tube creating vacuum around the penis. This vacuum forces the penis to stretch and more blood flows into the penis causing a full and large erection. The user can then place a special rubber ring at the base of the penis to keep the blood trapped into the penis and maintain the erection for as long as needed and until the ring is removed.

Some men with erectile dysfunction may find this technique helpful and reliable, while others would never even consider it. The following are some of the advantages and disadvantages of vacuum pumps.

Advantages of Vacuum Pumps:

1. Provide quick and instant results.
2. Affordable solution (can cost about $50-$200, depending on the features).
3. Do not require a prescription from your doctor.
4. Easy to obtain.

Disadvantages of Vacuum Pumps:

1. Not practical for regular use.
2. Could be embarrassing.
3. Could be uncomfortable.
4. It may deform the penis.
5. It may give you lymph blisters on the glans penis (head of the penis).
6. The rubber ring may cause discomfort or pain, especially during ejaculation.
7. Over-pumping may cause injury or serious damage to the penis, e.g. damage some penile tissues or burst some penile blood vessels.

If you have ED, and you think that vacuum pumps may help you, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before using such devices to avoid any unwanted or harmful results, which may cause a bigger and more serious problem than ED itself.