opinion

A Look at the Evolution of Pleasure-Enhancing Pumps

A Look at the Evolution of Pleasure-Enhancing Pumps

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!

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.

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.

Rebecca Weinberg is an award-winning industry leader with more than 20 years of experience in the adult industry. She is the president of multi-award-winning pleasure product manufacturer XR Brands.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

How Adult Retailers Can Enhance Sales With Supplements

The supplement industry is big business. In 2024, Future Market Insights estimated it to be valued at $74.3 billion, and other market research firms anticipate that number will grow to upwards of $170 billion in just 10 years.

Rick Magana ·
opinion

Why It's Time the Pleasure Industry Got Serious About IPX Waterproof Ratings

As someone who regularly communicates with manufacturers, retailers and consumers, I’ve seen how this ambiguity can do a disservice to both the customers who use these products and the businesses that sell them.

Alicia Sinclair Rosen ·
opinion

Tips for Sexual Wellness Brands to Win Over Gen Z This Summer

As summer rolls around, the excitement in the air is palpable, especially for one particular demographic: Gen Z. College and university classes are over, vacations are booked and it’s time to let loose.

Naima Karp ·
opinion

Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community With Inclusive Packaging Design

Pride Month is a time of visibility, joy and self-expression. In the pleasure industry, projecting that energy can start with something as simple as a box. Market research shows that 72% of U.S. consumers say product packaging influences their purchasing decisions.

Matthew Spindler ·
profile

WIA Profile: Pettus Ashley

Pettus Ashley brings her A game to the world of authentic adult branding, flitting between airports as the American face of U.K. brand Bathmate. As a company brand ambassador, Ashley personifies Bathmate’s dedication to the retail world, showering staff with equal amounts of appreciation and sales education.

Women In Adult ·
profile

Good Relations Fosters Sex Wellness, Positivity for 40+ Years

Melinda Myers, the founder and owner of Good Relations in Eureka, California, was still in college when she got invited to attend her first pleasure products home party.

Quinton Bellamie ·
opinion

Why It's Time for Pleasure Brands to Stop Ignoring B2C Marketing

For many B2B adult brands, marketing to consumers feels like a waste of time. I’ve heard it so many times: “We sell to retailers, not consumers. Why should we invest in B2C marketing?”

Hail Groo ·
opinion

The Midlife Movement Is Exploding; Is the Pleasure Industry Ready?

In marketing, there tends to be an emphasis on the younger generation — the trendsetters. The assumption is that appealing to the younger market has a halo effect on older consumers, who look to younger folks for what is on trend.

Sarah Tomchesson ·
opinion

Gender Play Gets Creative With Fantasy Toys

Sex toy manufacturers are increasingly recognizing the value of fantasy products, expanding their lines to include ever more diverse designs. What was once considered a niche market has proven to have broad appeal, demonstrating that people are eager to explore desires that extend beyond conventional human experiences.

Rin Musick ·
opinion

How Sex Toy Retailers Can Better Support Marginalized Communities

As someone who has been in the industry since 2003, I’ve seen countless trends, products and marketing strategies come and go. Yet one thing has remained consistent: a significant gap in how sex toy retailers serve marginalized communities.

Kimberly Scott Faubel ·
Show More