The Penis Project Podcast: Breaking Taboos in Men’s Sexual Health

In this refreshingly honest episode, Melissa chats with the inspiring and trailblazing Dr. Amy Pearlman—a US-based female urologist, twin, and co-founder of the Prime Institute in Florida. Known for her progressive and patient-first approach, Amy opens up about her journey into men’s health, the procedures she performs (including penile girth enhancement), and the power of confidence in sexual wellbeing.  This episode dives deep into:  * Why Amy chose a career in urology  * How penile enhancement treatments like hyaluronic acid fillers are helping men regain confidence  * The rise of penile retraction as a commonly ignored concern—and what can be done about it  * Using tools like Restorex and vacuum erection devices for rehabilitation and enhancement  * Why Botox for the penis (Bocox) might be the next frontier in treating ED and penile retraction  * The role of filler sleeves in preserving shape post-injection  * Her concierge model of care and how it allows for more personalised, holistic men’s health treatment.  Dr. Pearlman also busts myths and shares real-world insight from her clinical experience. Melissa shares a fascinating case of six men from Papua New Guinea searching for penis enlargement in Perth!  Key Topics Covered:  * Penile girth enhancement with hyaluronic acid filler  * Filler safety, reversibility, and realistic expectations  * Why sexual confidence matters in treating premature ejaculation  * Treating penile retraction and post-surgical shrinkage  * Erectile dysfunction therapies: PDE5 inhibitors, daily tadalafil vs. on-demand Spontan spray  * How Dr. Pearlman learned procedures after formal training—and why that matters  * The difference between snake oil and real innovation in men’s health  * Cosmetic urology vs. functional outcomes: bridging the gap    About Dr. Amy Pearlman:  Amy is a board-certified urologist, medical educator, and co-founder of the Prime Institute. Her career spans academic medicine, transgender surgery, male sexual health, hormone therapy, and now cosmetic urology with a focus on confidence, body image, and function. Known for her progressive mindset, Amy trains other professionals and speaks globally on men’s health and innovation in urological care.  * Prime Institute: www.theprimeinstitute.com [https://www.theprimeinstitute.com/]  * Follow Amy on Instagram: @amypearlmanmd [https://www.instagram.com/amypearlmanmd/?hl=en]  Resources & Links:  * Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  * For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au [http://www.rshealth.com.au/] , www.makehardeasy.com.au [http://www.makehardeasy.com.au/] and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au [http://www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au/]   Listen & Subscribe  * If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Amy If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.  Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/ [https://rshealth.com.au/]    https://makehardeasy.com.au [https://makehardeasy.com.au/]   https://melissahadleybarrett.com [https://melissahadleybarrett.com/]   http://prost.com.au/ [http://prost.com.au/]  Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ [https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/]  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814]  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ [https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/]  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ [https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/]  TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/]   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA]

In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa welcomes Tim, the brand manager of VaxAid, to introduce a revolutionary vacuum erection device now launching in Australia. If you've heard Melissa talk about Bathmate, you’ll want to hear about its medical-grade cousin—VaxAid—which combines water-based technology with medically approved features, making it one of the safest and most effective penis pumps on the market. It is also the only pump that can be used in water and air.  Tim and Melissa dive into everything you need to know: how it works, why hydro pumps are different to air pumps, the benefits of VaxAid's unique erection ring system, and what makes it TGA, FDA, and ISO certified. They also explore how this device fits into broader penile rehabilitation strategies post-cancer treatment, after surgery, or for general sexual health optimisation.  Key Takeaways:  * What is VaxAid, and how is it different from traditional air pumps or the original Bathmate?  * Why hydraulic pressure is safer and more effective than air-based systems  * The importance of nocturnal erections and penile exercise in preventing long-term ED  * How VaxAid’s comfort ring system supports blood flow while allowing for sexual intercourse  * Insights into post-prostatectomy rehabilitation and vacuum therapy best practices  * What makes VaxAid TGA-registered, FDA-compliant, and ISO GMP-certified  * How VaxAid is supporting global clinical trials in collaboration with FirmTech  * Tips for pump maintenance, correct sizing, and why quality matters in men’s health devices  Featured Product: VaxAid Hydro Pump  * TGA-Registered in Australia  * FDA-Registered (U.S.)  *  ISO-Certified Good Manufacturing Practice  *  Clinically approved erection rings (sizes in 4mm increments)  *  Designed for both rehabilitation and sexual activity  *  Works in water (bath/shower) or air (bedroom use)  * Available in multiple sizes for optimal fit and pressure control  Top Tips when using:  * Keep pubic hair trimmed for optimal seal  * Clean valve parts regularly to prevent water buildup  * Use the handball pump for more comfortable use, especially post-surgery  * Choose the right size—think Goldilocks: not too big, not too small, just right!    Expert Insight from Melissa Hadley Barrett:  * Using a penile pump daily can improve blood flow and preserve erectile function  * Men often lose nocturnal erections during cancer recovery—this pump helps restore them  * Cheaper pumps can cause damage due to inconsistent pressure—medical-grade pumps prevent that  Listener Offer:  Get 10% off your VaxAid with the code RHC20 – available for Australian and international orders    Resources & Links:  * Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  * For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au [http://www.rshealth.com.au/] , www.makehardeasy.com.au [http://www.makehardeasy.com.au/]   Listen & Subscribe  * If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.     Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/ [https://rshealth.com.au/]  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au [https://makehardeasy.com.au/]   https://melissahadleybarrett.com [https://melissahadleybarrett.com/]   http://prost.com.au/ [http://prost.com.au/]     Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ [https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/]  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814]    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ [https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/]  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ [https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/]  TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/]   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA]

In this episode of The Penis Project Podcast, Melissa chats with Richard, an entrepreneur and Peyronie’s disease patient who turned personal frustration into innovation. After struggling with pain and slippage while using the Restorex traction device for Peyronie’s treatment, Richard took matters into his own hands—literally—and developed a more comfortable alternative: the Comfort Grip.  Richard shares his journey from diagnosis to design, including his extensive research, collaboration with other Peyronie’s specialists, and the trial-and-error process of product development. His invention aims to improve comfort, reduce prep time, and enhance treatment outcomes for men using penile traction therapy.  The Comfort Grip is designed to replace the standard Restorex clamp with a soft, adjustable, non-painful grip, offering ease of use and compatibility with both circumcised and uncircumcised users. This episode is a must-listen for men with Peyronie’s disease and anyone supporting someone on their penile rehabilitation journey.  Key Takeaways:  * Richard’s Peyronie’s diagnosis and personal experience with traction therapy  * Why the Restorex device works well—but some people need an added fitting to enable to be more comfortable and effective  * The invention of the Comfort Grip: a gentle, adjustable, and user-friendly alternative end fitting for Restorex  * Product testing, manufacturing, and future commercial availability  * Plans to sell via Amazon, eBay, and through Melissa Hadley Barrett’s website  * Insights into the penis product invention world, marketing humour included!  Not Just Another Gadget:  Unlike traditional clamps that often cause pain, the Comfort Grip offers:  * Infinite adjustment via a turnable bezel  * Silicone padding for even pressure distribution  * Quick and painless application—no bandages or taping required  * Compatibility with foreskin (no need to retract)   Where to Get the Comfort Grip:  The Comfort Grip will be available for purchase in May via:  * www.rshealth.om.au [http://www.rshealth.om.au/]  * https://www.comfortgrip.co.uk/shop/ [https://www.comfortgrip.co.uk/shop/]     Resources & Links:  * Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  * For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au [http://www.rshealth.com.au/] , www.makehardeasy.com.au [http://www.makehardeasy.com.au/]   Listen & Subscribe  * If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.    Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Richard. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.     Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/ [https://rshealth.com.au/]  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au [https://makehardeasy.com.au/]   https://melissahadleybarrett.com [https://melissahadleybarrett.com/]   http://prost.com.au/ [http://prost.com.au/]     Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ [https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/]  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814]    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ [https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/]  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ [https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/]  TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/]   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA]

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Melissa chats with Richard and Pauline, a 75-year-old couple who generously share their personal experience with prostate cancer—from diagnosis to recovery. They open up about the emotional and physical aspects of his journey, including the moment a routine PSA test led to further investigation and, eventually, robotic prostate surgery.  This conversation shines a light on topics that are often left unspoken: erectile dysfunction after surgery, managing incontinence, and maintaining penis health in the face of cancer treatment. Richard discusses the treatments he tried, including injections, penis pumps, oral medications, and a new nasal spray for ED—and what worked best for him.  They also talk about the role of partners during recovery. Richard speaks warmly about the support he received from his wife Pauline, and how her own journey with vaginal discomfort was improved with expert help from the vagina whisperer Kate.  Alongside medical insights, this episode explores the financial realities of treatment, highlights the importance of pre-surgical preparation (including pelvic floor exercises), and makes a compelling case for early PSA screening—particularly for men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.    Key Takeaways:  * Why PSA testing and early detection matter  * New nasal spray for Erectile Dysfunction- Spontan  * How pelvic floor physiotherapy helps with recovery and incontinence  * Treatment options for erectile dysfunction post-surgery  * The benefits of maintaining penis health after prostate cancer  * The impact of a supportive partner and professional team  * Federal and State government support available for incontinence products    Resources & Links:  * Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  * https://spontan.hck.digital/patient-zone [https://spontan.hck.digital/patient-zone]   * https://www.pelvichug.com/ [https://www.pelvichug.com/] Louise Hug   * For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au [http://www.rshealth.com.au/] , www.makehardeasy.com.au [http://www.makehardeasy.com.au/] and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au [http://www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au/]   * Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS)- federal Australian government https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/continence-aids-payment-scheme-caps [https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/continence-aids-payment-scheme-caps]   Listen & Subscribe  * If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.  Connect With Us  We love hearing from real people navigating penile health—just like Richard. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.  Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/ [https://rshealth.com.au/]    https://makehardeasy.com.au [https://makehardeasy.com.au/]   https://melissahadleybarrett.com [https://melissahadleybarrett.com/]   http://prost.com.au/ [http://prost.com.au/]  Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ [https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/]  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814]  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ [https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/]  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ [https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/]  TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/]   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA]

Today on the Penis Project Melissa chats to Professor Eric Chung who is recognised as one of Australia's leading urologists and has been invited as a speaker at many international and national meetings as well as received numerous national and international awards and research grants. In this candid and science-backed conversation, they discuss Spontan—a revolutionary nasal spray delivering the PDE5 inhibitor Vardenafil to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).  Unlike traditional oral ED medications like Viagra (Sildenafil) or Cialis (Tadalafil), Spontan uses an intranasal delivery system to provide rapid onset—within just five -fifteen minutes—making it ideal for spontaneous sexual activity. This episode dives into how Spontan works, its benefits over oral medications, who it’s most suitable for, and the research behind its success.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with ED, exploring options beyond tablets, or simply curious about advances in sexual health treatments for men.  In This Episode:  *  Why Spontan offers faster onset compared to oral PDE5s  *  Differences in side effects between nasal and oral ED medications  *  Ideal patient profiles and common prescribing scenarios  * Clinical insights from over 300 patient prescriptions  *  The role of Spontan in prostate cancer rehabilitation  *  Tips for effective usage and what to expect with first-time use  *  Why proper technique reduces nasal discomfort and sneezing  *  The quirky catchphrase: “Up your nose and up it goes!”  Key Topics Covered:  * What are PDE5 inhibitors and how do they work?  * Why nasal delivery bypasses gut metabolism for improved effectiveness  * Comparing Spontan with oral Viagra, Cialis and injectables  * Common side effects (and how to minimise them)  * Using Spontan for post-prostate cancer sexual rehabilitation  * Can Spontan be used more than once a day?  * Compatibility with nasal decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine)  * Patient success stories and selection criteria for best results  Spontan Nasal Spray: Currently available in Australia via the Special Access Scheme. Book an appointment today at www.rshealth.com.au [http://www.rshealth.com.au/]    Resources & Links:  * Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  * For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au [http://www.rshealth.com.au/] , www.makehardeasy.com.au [http://www.makehardeasy.com.au/] and www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au [http://www.melissahadleybarrett.com.au/]   Listen & Subscribe  * If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.    Want to Share Your Story or Suggest a Topic?    We love hearing from listeners and professionals. Reach out via email at admin@melissahadleybarrett.com if you'd like to be featured or have suggestions for future episodes.    Connect With Us    Email: admin@melissahadleybarrett.com  Website: www.rshealth.com.au [https://www.rshealth.com.au/]  Websites:  https://rshealth.com.au/ [https://rshealth.com.au/]  All genders  https://makehardeasy.com.au [https://makehardeasy.com.au/]   https://melissahadleybarrett.com [https://melissahadleybarrett.com/]   http://prost.com.au/ [http://prost.com.au/]     Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/ [https://m.facebook.com/p/Melissa-Hadley-Barrett-100085237672685/]  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085146627814]    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/ [https://www.instagram.com/melissahadleybarrett/]  https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/ [https://www.instagram.com/restorativehealth.clinic/]  TikTok: @melissahadleybarrett  YouTube: Melissa Hadley Barrett  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hadley-barrett/]   TEDX  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA]