The penis pump has been around for decades, one of the early tools designed to help men with erectile function issues so that they could achieve an erection. Even with other advances in this area, the penis pump is still often recommended for use by men whose penis health issues make becoming erect difficult. But over the last fifty years, another set of men have become penis pump enthusiasts: those who believe that using a penis pump can add length and/or girth to their erect penis. For any new penis pump users – especially those who are using the tool to increase their penis size – the following may be useful in avoiding a sore penis while using the pump.

First, it should be acknowledged that there is considerable debate about whether or not the penis pump can actually increase penis size – and if it can, whether this is a temporary or permanent effect. Second, many medical professionals feel there is a risk in using a penis pump recreationally and without a doctor’s prescription. There is the risk of permanent damage from penis pump use.

But if a man is going to use a penis pump, there are several things to remember in order to avoid getting a sore penis.

- Follow instructions carefully. Pumps obtained under a prescription should always have clear and detailed instructions. However, if a man buys a pump without a prescription from a commercial manufacturer, it may not have instructions, or the instructions may be incomplete. If instructions are complete, be sure to follow them in order to know the proper way to use the pump; improper use is probably the most common reason for a man getting a sore penis from pumping. If instructions are not included, look online for general instructions or see if this particular device (or a similar one) has online instructions.

- Start slowly. It may take a few attempts for the penis to get used to the pumping process. Be patient. Rushing can result in soreness or even permanent damage. Some guys want to start using the pump every day; however, if soreness or other warning signs result, start out with less frequency – perhaps 3 times a week. It also is often best to make the first few attempts short – perhaps 3 to 5 minutes.

- Don’t overdo. A lot of men really get into their penis pump and want to use it for extended periods of time – half an hour, an hour, or more. Most physicians recommend using it for not more than 20 minutes at a time – and then only after building up to that length of time.

- If it hurts – stop. Use common sense when pumping. If something hurts or doesn’t feel right, stop and try to figure out why. Is the device not placed properly? Is the suction too strong? Is the seal loose? Try to determine the cause of the pain and correct it. If necessary, contact the manufacturer to see if they can help pinpoint and solve the problem.

- Be aware. Just like you shouldn’t operate heavy machinery unless at your best, don’t use a penis pump when you’ve been drinking, taking drugs, not getting enough sleep, or in some other situation in which your judgment and/or reflexes may be impaired.

Even following this advice, some men using a penis pump may end up with a sore penis. In addition to letting it rest, they should be sure to regularly use a top-notch penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Select a crème with a combination of soothing moisturizing elements, such as shea butter and vitamin E. Keeping the penis skin healthy will also help alleviate soreness. Use a crème with alpha lipoic acid, a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and the skin damage using the pumps can cause.