The P-Shot (short for Priapus Shot) is a nonsurgical procedure that uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) drawn from your own blood and injects it into the penis to improve erectile function, sensitivity, and in some cases size. It takes about 30 minutes, requires no downtime, and results typically last around a year. The procedure is not FDA-approved for this specific use, and the clinical evidence supporting it is still limited, though early studies show modest improvements.
How the Procedure Works
The P-Shot relies on PRP, a concentrated portion of your blood that contains growth factors your body normally uses to heal injuries and grow new blood vessels. The idea is that injecting this concentration directly into penile tissue triggers a localized repair response: new blood vessel formation, improved circulation, and tissue regeneration in the erectile chambers of the penis.
The steps are straightforward. A provider draws a small blood sample from your arm, then spins it in a centrifuge, a machine that separates blood components by density. The platelet-rich layer is extracted into a syringe. Before the injection, the provider applies a numbing cream or injects a local anesthetic into the penis to minimize discomfort. The PRP is then injected into several specific areas of the penis. The entire visit, from blood draw to walking out, takes roughly 30 minutes.
What It’s Used For
Most men seek the P-Shot for erectile dysfunction. The growth factors in PRP encourage new blood vessel development, which can help men with poor circulation, diabetes, or those who’ve undergone prostate cancer treatment. Some men also pursue it for increased penile length and girth, or for improved sensitivity during sex.
Another application is Peyronie’s disease, a condition where fibrous scar tissue (plaque) forms inside the penis and causes it to curve during erections. In a study of 36 patients treated with PRP combined with a needle tunneling technique, the average penile curvature dropped from about 57.5 degrees to roughly 41 degrees, a mean improvement of nearly 17 degrees. About half of the curvature was corrected on average. It’s worth noting, though, that this study combined PRP with other techniques, so the PRP alone may not account for the full improvement.
What the Evidence Actually Shows
The honest picture is that evidence for the P-Shot is still in its early stages. Most published studies are small, and large randomized controlled trials are lacking. One study found that patients with both erectile dysfunction and Peyronie’s disease saw an improvement of about 4 points on the standard erectile function questionnaire (a roughly 9% gain). That’s a measurable change, but it’s modest.
Some urologists are skeptical. Hartford HealthCare, for example, has publicly cautioned men against both the P-Shot and shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction, noting that neither has strong enough evidence to be considered a standard treatment. That said, both procedures continue to be offered by clinics across the country, and many patients report subjective improvements in erection quality, sensitivity, and satisfaction. The gap between patient testimonials and rigorous clinical data is something to be aware of if you’re considering the procedure.
Recovery and Results Timeline
There’s essentially no downtime after a P-Shot. Most men return to normal activities, including sex, within a day or two. Mild soreness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites is common and typically resolves quickly.
Results don’t appear immediately. Here’s the general timeline most providers describe:
- 2 to 3 weeks: Early signs of improved erectile function and increased sensitivity.
- 2 to 3 months: Most men reach peak results, with firmer erections and enhanced sexual response.
- 3 to 4 months: Maximum benefits, including any changes in girth or overall satisfaction.
Results typically last about a year. Some men schedule maintenance treatments every 4 to 6 months to sustain the effects, while others get a single annual session. How long the results last varies from person to person and depends on the underlying cause of the dysfunction.
Side Effects and Risks
Because PRP comes from your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or rejection is extremely low. The most common side effects are minor: temporary bruising, swelling, or soreness at the injection site. Infection is possible with any injection but rare when performed in a clean clinical setting.
Men with blood disorders, active infections, or those taking blood-thinning medications may not be good candidates. The procedure also isn’t appropriate for penile conditions that require surgical intervention. If you’re considering it, look for a provider who is experienced with PRP injections specifically, not just any clinic offering it as an add-on service.
Cost and Accessibility
The P-Shot is considered elective and cosmetic by most insurers, so it’s almost always an out-of-pocket expense. Prices typically range from $800 to $2,000 per session depending on the provider and location. Since many men need repeat treatments to maintain results, the annual cost can add up. Clinics offering the procedure range from urology practices to medical spas, and the quality of the experience can vary significantly. Choosing a provider with specific training in PRP therapy and a background in urology or sexual medicine gives you the best chance of a safe, well-administered procedure.