The Priapus Shot or P-Shot, as it's commonly called, is a relatively new procedure designed to treat erectile dysfunction, among other common penile problems.
The procedure uses your own platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and it is injected into your penis to potentially stimulate new cell growth and improve blood flow.
PRP is responsible for healing wounds, so the theory is that the P-Shot will rejuvenate the penis and allow it to function at an optimum level, but does it work?
Quick FAQs
Because the area is numbed prior to the injection, most patients report little to no pain.
No, once you complete the series of injections, the results last roughly two years.
The average cost of the procedure ranges from $600-$2000 dollars depending on where you live. This procedure is not typically covered by insurance.
Typically, most people can return to their sex lives within a few days.
What is the P Shot Used For?
If you're wondering, "what is the P shot?" you're not alone.
This relatively new therapy may help to help improve:
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Weak orgasms
Penis sensitivity
Circulatory problems in the penis
Peyronie’s disease, or a curvature of the penis
Increased penile sensitivity
The P-Shot was first registered in 2010 and is still in the experimental stage, although many licensed doctors are authorized to administer it throughout the US.
The goal is for the PRP to rejuvenate the penis and allow it to function at an ideal level.
Since PRP is responsible for wound healing, it may play a role in forming new neural pathways in the penis to promote a healthy circulatory system and stronger erections.
Generally, the P Shot is administered over a series of several months.
In many cases, a single procedure consists of two to three shots on one side of the penis and then an equal amount on the other side.
The procedure is often done once a month for up to six months or until the doctor and patient are satisfied with the results.
When the patient goes home, the doctor may advise them to rest their penis for a few days to aid in healing.
Along with this, some doctors recommend using a penis pump to help stimulate the PRP throughout the penis.
Pros and Cons of the P-Shot
While the scientific research and studies on the P-Shot are relatively thin, especially since the procedure was only registered in 2010, there are a handful of patient reviews and adjacent studies that can help paint a picture of the pros and cons of the P shot.
Generally safe and without widespread side effects
The procedure is simple and usually without complications
Cons of the P-Shot:
Lack of extensive research or studies on the effectiveness and overall safety- this means there is a good chance that you will have no change in your pre-shot condition.
Requires multiple shots and appointments
Potential soreness for a few days after the shot
Risk of vein or nerve damage due to repeated injections
Cost (depending on the area)
How to Get Ready for the Procedure?
Luckily, you don’t have to do anything major to prepare for the Priapus Shot.
However, it’s ideal to get a full night's sleep and eat well beforehand to help your body respond best to the procedure.
Working out lightly before the procedure can also help since cardiovascular activity will improve your blood flow, and this may help you react optimally to the P-Shot.
Likewise, a vegetable-rich diet can improve your cardiovascular system and help ensure you get the best results from the P Shot.
By taking care of your body, you’ll likely improve your chances of success from the procedure.
Even though the Priapus Shot is a very simple procedure, it’s helpful to know exactly what to expect so you can arrive with confidence and without stress.
Here’s what you can likely expect on the day of the P-Shot:
You’ll arrive at your scheduled time and will be asked a few basic questions.
They will have you lie down as you begin to prepare for the procedure.
A numbing cream will be applied on and around your penis to ensure the procedure is painless and comfortable.
A small blood sample will be taken, likely from your arm.
The blood sample will be put into a centrifuge to separate the PRP for the procedure.
Once the PRP is fully extracted, it will be injected into the penis shaft and possibly the head.
The procedure only takes about five minutes and generally consists of 4-6 injections in total.
You may be asked to wait for a few moments before leaving to ensure everything is fine.
When you leave, you may be provided with a penis pump to help increase circulation at home and ensure the PRP is spread evenly throughout the penis.
Potential Side Effects or Complications
While the P-Shot is generally regarded as safe and without the risk of any major side effects, it’s still a medical procedure and comes with some potential risks that should be noted beforehand.
Some of the most common side effects include:
Pain or soreness for a few days after the procedure
Anxiety about the injections (although this usually fades after repeated visits)
Swelling and bruising
Itching and discomfort
Some of the more rare yet serious side effects are likely from the act of injecting, and not the PRP itself.
The repeated use of needles carries some risks, including:
Vein or nerve damage from the injection
Scarring
An infection
Long-lasting pain or discomfort
Alternatives
The P-Shot is likely not a person's first choice when it comes to solving ED and other male sexual problems.
Before trying the Priapus Shot, it's worth exploring less expensive, less invasive, and more readily available alternatives that may provide relief.
Products like Vitaflux utilize researched ingredients like L-arginine, L-citrulline, and L-Carnitine tartrate to safely increase nitric oxide production throughout your body.
This can help to improve your circulatory system and blood flow throughout the penis to help with stronger and firmer erections, a higher libido, and even more satisfying orgasms.
Kegels, which require squeezing the pelvic floor muscle gently throughout the day, can also help to increase erection quality and reduce ED.
FAQs About the P-Shot
Is it painful?
The P-Shot itself is generally not regarded as painful. Before the procedure, you’ll apply a numbing gel or cream to help minimize the risk of any pain during the injections.
However, you may still feel some pressure from the injections, and this can be slightly unsettling given the area, even if it’s not painful.
For a day or two afterward, you may feel some slight pain and discomfort throughout the penis.
An ice pack or a simple over-the-counter pain reliever may help to alleviate the pain, but it’s important to ask your doctor before using anything after the procedure.
How Much Does it Cost?
The P Shot can cost anywhere from $600 to $2,000 per visit, depending on your local area.
Some areas have higher costs, and certain providers may charge more or less than others.
The procedure is generally out-of-pocket as well as it is considered experimental and not approved by the FDA, and may require an average of five separate procedures in total.
How Do I Find a Doctor?
There are many licensed doctors throughout the US that can provide the Priapus Shot.
To find one, simply search in your local area for a P-Shot provider, and then check to ensure they are licensed and have strong reviews.
How Long is Recovery?
The average recovery time for the P-Shot is quite short, with many people online saying it only took a day or two until the slight pain and discomfort went away.
However, since the P Shot does not have a lot of scientific studies backing it, this information is generally gathered from firsthand reviews of the procedure.
How Long Before I See the Results?
Results will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
Your age
The severity of your problems (such as ED or lack of sensitivity)
Your overall health and fitness
Most of all, results are highly individualistic and depend on how well your body reacts to your PRP.
Some people react very positively and quickly, while for others, it may take several months and treatments before positive results are noticed.
Some people report seeing increased erection size and quality within just 24 hours, while the average seems to be within 3-6 monthly treatments.
Some people also report seeing positive effects only after six months of treatment.
How Long Before I Can Have Sex Again?
It’s best to avoid sex for at least a few days after the procedure to ensure there’s no irritation, worsening of discomfort, or risk of infection at the injection sites.
Due to certain individual factors, such as your age and health, your doctor will likely provide a more specific timeline on when you can enjoy sex after the treatment.
You may also be advised to avoid certain activities like lifting heavy weights, squatting, or riding a bicycle immediately after the Priapus Shot to avoid irritation.
Are the Results Permanent?
It’s theorized that the results can last up to two years for some users.
The duration of the effects likely depends on numerous individual factors, including:
How many P-Shots were given
The recipients' age and overall health
What symptoms the P Shots treated
However, when successful, the P-Shot likely provides at least several months of stronger erections, with potential benefits lasting up to two years.
Takeaways
The P-Shot is an experimental procedure that may help improve erectile dysfunction, a lack of sensitivity, and other penile problems among men.
The Priapus Shot generally has few side effects, although it does lack federal approval and long-term studies about its benefits.
Other options may come with more scientific proof for treating ED, and should be considered first.
For most men, the P-Shot won’t be the first tool to fight against ED, but it may prove to be a worthwhile one in certain situations.
Dr Laurence Levine is a Professor of Urology and practices at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He is focused specifically on Male Sexual Health and is past President of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA). Dr. Levine graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine where he received his MD and completed his training in Urology at the Harvard Program in Boston.
Sources:
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