Even though the pleasure industry is famously innovative, most “new” products are still ultimately reimagined versions of previous ones. They expand on the core idea by introducing a new feature or solution that takes the original concept to a new level of sensation, functionality or convenience. This cycle of reinvention results in a seemingly endless array of options, price points on shelves and possibilities for the future.

One category that has seen such an evolution is pumps. Let’s explore just how far pumps have come!

What is a pump?

Simply put, a pump is a device that can be used to draw blood to a specific area of the body. While the term “pump” often describes devices made to be used on penises, the use of pumping technology for temporary enlargement and engorgement is not exclusive to phalluses. The world of pump-based products has evolved and expanded to include cylinders for multiple body parts like the nipples, vulva or clitoris, as well as high-tech automatic pumping and even added pleasure functions.

Pumps typically feature a plastic chamber or cylinder that encases the body part in question, which connects via a small hose to a pump device that can be manually or electronically operated. Many pumps also come with a gauge that makes it easy to monitor how much pressure is being applied.

Increasing blood flow to an area increases the sensitivity and overall surface area, which means pumps can be used and enjoyed by anyone looking to ramp up the sensory experience of sexual pleasure. Here are some parts of the body on which one might use a vacuum pump:

Penis

A lot of folks think of penis pumps as something used by people hoping to increase their penis size, but they are actually more about facilitating and supporting erections while increasing sensitivity. Of course, engorgement and swelling can certainly make a penis appear larger, albeit temporarily! Penis pumps accomplish this by creating a vacuum around the base of the penis, and engorging it so that erections look and feel fuller. Some penis pumps are designed for users who can no longer experience erections on their own for medical reasons, and many can be used with cock rings to help users maintain the erection and engorgement that their pumps facilitate.

Vulva and clitoris

Much like a penis pump covers the penis, there are pumps made to cover the entire vulva, increasing blood flow to the entire area and making the vulva and labia temporarily appear fluffy or puffy. Cylinder attachments can be helpful for users who struggle with sensory challenges like genital numbness. Vulva pumps also heighten skin sensitivity considerably, which makes them ideal for sensation enhancement. Even more common are pumps made to fit on and around the external part of the clitoris, which draw blood directly to the clitoris, temporarily making it incredibly sensitive and significantly larger.

Nipples and breasts

Nipple pumps can be fun for literally any body. Classic pinch or twist nipple suckers are essentially analog nipple pumps and an affordable and effective way to engorge and enlarge the nipples.

Next, let’s look at how this category of pleasure products has grown and changed in recent years.

Pumps enter the modern age

Along with the rest of the industry, pumps have come a long way over the years. Thanks to improved quality and innovation, someone shopping for a penis pump today will find much more than a cylinder attached to a bulb pump! There are powered devices that put users in control with a continuous, even flow of vacuum pressure, adjustable suction intensity and precision monitoring of the pressure level. Today’s pumps have made the leap from the back corner of the sex shop to a vibrant category of functional pleasure products.

As pumps have become more diverse, the features, functions and bells and whistles have, too. Some models are equipped with all the fixings, offering multiple simultaneous uses such as stimulating and engorging the nipples and clitoris with one hand pump. Some pumps cross over into the vibrator category while others incorporate underwater pleasure, such as submersible penis pumps for boosting erections and stroking masturbation.

Helping customers find their perfect pump

Pumps are an exciting and robust category of products with many options and capabilities. With that in mind, stocking a variety of pumps and being ready, willing and able to help shoppers navigate the selection is key to making sure customers leave happy and come back often.

For new shoppers, be prepared to explain how vacuum pump products work and the potential benefits of using them. Once customers understand the basics, they can check out the different features and make their selection. All-in-one high-value kits are great for curious shoppers who have more than one part of the body in mind.

For more seasoned shoppers who are familiar with the category, it is important to have products on hand that help them take their pump use to the next level. For pump users who want to personalize or upgrade their experience, stock pumps that can be connected to a variety of cylinders. For folks who want to go all-in on their pumping exploration, a larger all-in-one set may be a worthwhile investment and something to include in your inventory.

Pumps are becoming more advanced all the time. This growing product category is evolving just as quickly as the industry itself, so stay on top of the latest products and features. That way, you will be better able to serve your customers — and keep them coming back.

A Look at the Evolution of Pleasure-Enhancing Pumps by Rebecca Weinberg originally appeared in XBIZ