questions and answers about penile clamps

by Diane K. Newman, RNC, MSN, CRNP, FAAN

Q: What is a penile clamp?

A: A penile clamp is a male incontinence device that is placed around the penis to prevent urine loss or leakage.

Q: What does a penile clamp look like?

A: There are several varieties of clamps currently on the market. Most penile clamps have a padded, flexible, soft inside made of foam that conforms to fit the penis. The outside of the clamp might be metal or plastic and usually has a way to adjust the size so it is not too tight.

Q: How is a penile clamp used?

A: Open the clamp and place it around the penis about halfway down the shaft. If there is a hump on one side, it is placed on the bottom side of your penis. Once it's in place, squeeze the clamp to close it. Make sure it's not too tight -- it should not be so tight as to stop blood circulation. To release the penile clamp, you should press inward on the spring wire loops.

Q: Can a penile clamp cause damage?

A: Yes, penile clamps can hurt the penis if they are not used correctly. Examine your penis completely, especially the skin on the top and bottom, and stop using a clamp if the skin is torn in any way, pale blue, reddened or broken. You may want to apply a cream to the skin before applying the clamp to protect it. If you don't release the clamp every two hours or so, you may develop a bladder infection or other urinary tract problems. Try not to use the penile clamp all day without a break - use it for several hours and then remove it for a few hours. Two periods of use (two hours each) would be an ideal arrangement.

If you experience:

• any itching
• pain
• urine with a bad odor
• discharge from your penis
• difficulty voiding
• trouble emptying your bladder

call your doctor's office to report your symptoms.

Q: How do I take care of a penile clamp?

A: Unless it's disposable, just wash the penile clamp with soap and warm water and rinse it thoroughly in cool water. Squeeze the moisture out of the soft foam and let it air dry away from heat or direct sunlight. Do not use the clamp again until it is thoroughly dry.

Updated August 2009

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