When you think of sex toys, your mind probably conjures images of the usual suspects—colorful dildos, pulsating vibrators, or even the furry handcuffs you have in the back of your closet. But there is one type of toy many people tend to overlook: the clit pump and all its underrated suction glory.

"Blood flow to the clitoris is essential to arousal and orgasm, and clit pumping can facilitate that for anyone with a clitoris, regardless of gender identity, making clit pumps a very useful and inclusive sex device," Mintz says.

The most obvious benefit of clit pumping is the increased sensation that happens as a result of the increased blood flow to the clitoris. That means more arousal, more sensitivity, and ultimately more intense orgasms. 

Clit pumping may also help strengthen the pelvic floor, according to Megwyn White, certified clinical sexologist and director of education at sex toy company Satisfyer. "Activating the clitoris with stimulation allows us to connect to the pelvic floor muscles," White says. "This helps to set off orgasm but is also healthy for continence [and] supporting internal organs."

As a person with a vagina ages, their ability to produce natural lubrication often decreases due to hormonal changes. Less lubrication can make penetrative sex more painful, and vaginal dryness can increase the risk of infections. "Using a clitoral stimulator allows you to keep your body's juices flowing without the need for internal stimulation, which can be especially helpful as your body experiences the natural changes that come with aging," White says.

Clit pumping can also enhance visual pleasure, says Dainis Graveris, certified sex educator and relationship expert at SexualAlpha. He says many men and women find the sight of a bigger clit to be a turn-on. "If you enjoy taking nudes, you can send pics of your clit to your partner. These pics will no doubt tease your partner like crazy," he adds.

The clit pump can be particularly useful for creating satisfying sexual experiences for trans people, Mintz notes. "While anyone with a clitoris who likes clitoral stimulation can enjoy a clit pump, they are often especially useful for transgender and gender-nonconforming people who can use the pumps to experience temporary genital growth—or in other words, making their clitoris more pronounced and phallic in shape," she explains. She says being able to create a visible clitoral erection can be really affirming and empowering.

Another thing to consider is whether you're "interested in pumping just the clitoris or if you'd like to try vulva pumping as well," Grover says. "Some devices will do both, as well as have the option to add vibration."

"Although pumping might feel unfamiliar, it's a red flag that you're pumping way too aggressively if it hurts. Using a clit pump too much and too fast can cause blisters and bruises. These devices function in the same way as you would create love bites or hickeys, so they can give your clit powerful suction," he says.

Be sure to check the positioning of your device. Placing the cup too low could cause it to pull on the surrounding skin of your anus, especially if you're working with a bigger pump, not just for your clit. 

She suggests using a breathing practice to help you: "Inhale deeply and then slowly exhale as you concentrate on contracting the muscles of the vaginal canal. Then release, and you'll feel an orgasmic sensation."

"When you are getting stimulated in this position by your partner, it is easier to access the g-spot because of the angle. Using one hand, you can easily access the clitoral glands and take clitoral stimulation to a whole new dimension. This position gives you more freedom to explore clitoral stimulation with your hand or this type of product," White says.

If you're using the pump and it becomes painful or too tight, or you begin to notice irritation or redness, use the release feature. The last thing you want to do is cause damage to the tissue and nerves in the area. Make sure to read the instructions on your particular device carefully to ensure you're using it properly and safely.

Lastly, don't forget to practice safer sex and to clean your sex toys according to the instructions provided. (Here's our full guide on how to clean your sex toys, based on the materials it's made from.) 

Clit pumping can be a way to add more physical sensation, variety, and excitement to your sexual sessions. If you decide to try clit pumping, make sure to follow the instructions from the manufacturer closely. And remember, since no two bodies are the same, be open to experimenting to see what works best for you and any partners.