A clit pump (also colloquially known as a pussy pump, suction toy, or clit sucking toys) are a class of devices that are used over the clitoris or vulva and create a light suction sensation. The purpose of the suction is to draw more blood flow to those areas to increase arousal, make the genitals more sensitive, improve pleasure, sometimes to deliberately enlarge the genitals, and, depending on the toy, potentially bring the user to orgasm.

While clit and pussy pumps primarily for increased blood flow have been on the market for quite some time, in the last few years, clit pumps (and usually they're just clit pumps so far) with added vibration or thumping to help bring people to climax have become more and more common.

Some pumps focus mainly on the external clitoris, while others focus on the overall external genital area (vulva and clitoris). Some devices include vibration or other sensations for additional stimulation. A few may have an additional "dildo" for additional internal/g-spot stimulation (I put dildo in quotes since some actually vibrate, some don't).

And finally, a few of these devices are even hands-free*! ... Though use common sense when searching for these mythical "hands-free" devices... many make the claim, but the literal weight of the device makes it impossible to secure. We'll call out a lightweight suction device that is truly hands free later in the article.

How to Use a Pussy Pump

Many sex toys – even the best pussy pump – do not come with clear or detailed instructions – some do not have any at all! But knowing how to use a pussy pump is a simple matter, once you understand the science behind it all.

The best pussy pump will have good suction and a nice tactile edge. This can be enhanced with a thin layer of water-based lube applied to the edge of the cup that will touch and suck onto the skin.

Once a connection has been made, the partner in control should pump – slowly! The best pussy pump designs do not need a lot of force, and bear in mind it is already a sensitive area! – once or twice. The seal should hold.

The best pussy pump will attach easily, and slowly tighten its grip as the air is removed. This causes the labia (both minora and majora) to be ‘sucked’ into the cup and the clitoris swells and ‘pops out’ into view. Touches will result in extremes of pleasure!

With any pussy pump, do not use the suction feature for more than ten minutes at a time, although you can – with the best pussy pump anyway – leave the cup in place, maintaining the suction. Overdoing the suction can cause actual harm, breaking blood vessels and causing numbness and loss of sensation in the very area that you are trying to enhance…

How to choose a pussy pump

Like pretty much every category of sex toys, there are many different types of pussy pumps. Before you start to look for a pussy pump, there are a few things you should take into consideration, such as the size that you might need. 

While we're sure you can list off your clothing size across several different brands in jeans, shirts, and shoes–it's likely that you don't know the 'size' your vagina for a pussy pump. That's ok. Probably the easiest thing to do would be to buy one of the ones listed that comes in variable sizes. 

If you're really interested in understanding the 'size' of your vagina, break out the measuring tape. You'll need two measurements. The first is your vagina 'length.' To find this, measure just above your clitoris to just below your vaginal opening. Second, you'll need your vagina width. To find your width, measure the distance between your thighs along your vulva. 

Got your size? Cool. Once you have that, just check the 'size charts' for the brand of pussy pump you're looking at to find out what size will fit you best.

Different types of pussy pumps: classic, vibrating, and clit suckers

Classic

Classic pussy pumps are simple–basically, a strong suction with an air-tight seal and pump to control it all. Pretty much all of them have a quick-release valve (thankfully). These pumps are often so low-maintenance that you don't even have to worry about whether they're USB rechargeable–as they use just an old fashioned hand-pump to achieve an airtight seal. 

Vibrating pumps 

This is where things can get interesting and you can combine the sensation of the pump with the sensation of a vibrator. These automatic vibrating pussy pumps can make it feel as though one is receiving oral sex as it strongly suctions the area.

Clitoral suction vibrators

These vibrators walk the line between clitoral stimulation vibrators and clitoral pumps. Another term for these vibes is 'clit sucker' vibes. They're designed to concentrate the sensation of a pussy pump on the clitoris.

Like the clitoral stimulation pussy pumps, suction vibrators are also designed to feel as though one is receiving great oral sex with variable air pressure. They're also great because they're easily used in almost any sex position.

Is It Safe?

Modern pussy pumps are designed to be safe. Their quick release triggers allow you to immediately discontinue their use if necessary, and they are generally manufactured from high-quality or medical-grade materials. When shopping, be sure that chambers are free of phthalates (known to pose cancer risks), and that your lube is water-based and parabens-free.

The first time you use a pussy pump the feeling may be somewhat uncomfortable, but it’s simply a matter of getting used to a new and unfamiliar feeling. You won’t be damaging your genitals. If you feel actual pain, it’s likely that the pump is sucking on sensitive skin above or below your target area because you’ve placed the chamber incorrectly. Let the sore area calm down, reposition the chamber and give it another try. 

Do be careful, though. Go one pump at a time, don’t keep pumping once you’ve established a nice, strong vacuum, and disconnect the chamber if you feel any pain. Also, check with your doctor first if you have a history of vulvar health issues.

As long as you take those sensible precautions, your pussy pump can heighten sexual pleasure well beyond the “normal” experiences of sex play. It’s well worth placing on your wishlist.