Using a Vacuum Erection Device for Sexual Activity
A vacuum erection device, sometimes called a vacuum pump or penis pump, is a non-surgical treatment for erection problems.
The device uses gentle suction to draw blood into the penis. A soft rubber ring is then placed around the base of the penis to help keep the erection firm enough for sexual activity.
Vacuum devices are a recognised treatment for erectile dysfunction and may be used alone or together with treatments such as sildenafil or tadalafil.[1–3]
What does the device include?
Most medical-quality devices contain:
A clear plastic tube that fits over the penis
A hand-operated or battery-powered pump
A button or valve that releases the vacuum
Soft constriction rings in different sizes
Water-based lubricant
Use a medical-quality device with a safety pressure limiter. This helps prevent the vacuum pressure from becoming too strong.[2,3]
A vacuum device helps create an erection. It does not permanently increase penis size.
How to use the device
The instructions supplied with your particular device should always be followed, as devices can differ.
Step 1: Practise before sexual activity
It may take several attempts to feel comfortable using the device.
Practise at a relaxed time rather than using it for the first time immediately before sex. Involving your partner may make the process feel more natural.
Step 2: Prepare the device
Place the constriction ring over the open end of the plastic tube, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
The ring needs to be firm enough to maintain the erection but should not cause significant pain or numbness.
Step 3: Apply lubricant
Apply a small amount of water-based lubricant:
Around the base of the penis
Around the opening of the tube
Around the constriction ring, if recommended
The lubricant helps create an airtight seal and makes the ring easier to move onto the penis.[3]
Step 4: Place the penis inside the tube
Place the penis fully inside the tube.
Press the tube gently but firmly against the body to create a seal.
Try to keep the testicles and loose scrotal skin outside the tube. If skin or a testicle is pulled into the tube, release the pressure, remove the device and reposition it.
Step 5: Pump slowly
Begin pumping slowly using small, gentle movements.
Pause between pumps to allow blood to enter the penis gradually. It may take from about 30 seconds to several minutes to create an erection.[3]
You may feel gentle pulling or pressure, but it should not be painful.
More suction does not necessarily create a better erection. Release the pressure immediately if you experience pain.
Step 6: Move the ring onto the penis
Once the penis is firm enough:
Keep the tube pressed against the body.
Slide the constriction ring from the tube onto the base of the penis.
Release the vacuum.
Gently remove the tube.
The ring remains around the base of the penis during sexual activity.
Step 7: Remove the ring within 30 minutes
The constriction ring must be removed within 30 minutes.
Consider setting a timer.
Never:
Fall asleep while wearing the ring
Leave the ring in place for longer than 30 minutes
Use more than one ring unless advised by your clinician
Leaving the ring on for too long may reduce blood flow and cause damage to the skin or penile tissue.[1,3]
What may the erection feel like?
An erection created by a vacuum device may feel different from a natural erection.
You may notice:
The penis feels cooler than usual
The penis looks darker, bluish or slightly purple
The erection is less firm at the base
The penis moves or bends more at its base
Sensation is slightly reduced
The ring feels tight
Ejaculation is weaker, uncomfortable or blocked
You can usually still have an orgasm even if little or no semen comes out.
These effects usually improve after the ring is removed.[1,3]
Possible side effects
Vacuum erection devices are generally safe when used correctly.
Possible temporary side effects include:
Mild discomfort
Small red spots under the skin
Bruising
Temporary swelling
Numbness or reduced feeling
A cool or bluish appearance
Discomfort during ejaculation
Pain or significant bruising may mean that too much vacuum was used or that the pressure was increased too quickly.[1,3]
Speak to your doctor before using the device if you:
Take blood-thinning medicines
Have a bleeding or clotting condition
Bruise very easily
Have sickle cell disease or another condition linked with prolonged erections
Have reduced feeling in the penis
Have diabetes-related nerve damage
Have a spinal cord injury
Have an infection, wound or broken skin on the penis
Have recently had prostate, penile, urethral or pelvic surgery
Have severe penile curvature or Peyronie’s disease
Have a penile implant or artificial urinary sphincter
Have previously had an erection lasting four hours or longer
People with reduced feeling may not notice excessive pressure or early skin injury. Carefully check the penis after each use.
Do not combine a vacuum device with penile injection treatment unless your clinician has given you clear instructions.
Common problems
The tube will not form a seal
Apply a little more water-based lubricant.
Press the tube more firmly against the body.
Move pubic hair or loose skin away from the edge of the tube.
Skin or a testicle is pulled into the tube
Release the vacuum immediately and reposition the device.
Some devices have inserts that make the tube opening smaller.
The erection disappears after removing the tube
The constriction ring may be too loose or may not be sitting at the base of the penis.
Try a slightly firmer ring. The ring should maintain the erection without causing significant pain or numbness.
Pumping is painful
Release the vacuum immediately.
Use fewer pumps and increase the pressure more slowly.
The device feels awkward
This is common at first. Practise several times without attempting sexual activity.
Your doctor, nurse or sexual-health clinician may be able to provide practical training.
When to seek medical help
Stop using the device and contact your clinician if you develop:
Significant or increasing pain
Severe bruising or bleeding
Blisters or broken skin
Marked swelling
Numbness that does not improve
Colour changes that continue after removing the ring
A new injury or worsening bend in the penis
Seek urgent medical attention if:
The constriction ring cannot be removed
The ring has been left on for longer than 30 minutes
The penis remains very painful, swollen or dark after removing the ring
An erection lasts for four hours or longer
Cleaning the device
After each use:
Remove the constriction ring.
Take the device apart as instructed.
Clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Allow all parts to dry completely.
Check the tube, seals, tubing and rings for damage.
Store the device in a clean, dry place.
Do not share the device or constriction rings with another person.
Do not use boiling water, alcohol or harsh cleaning chemicals unless recommended by the manufacturer.
Important points to remember
Use a medical-quality device with a safety pressure limiter.
Use water-based lubricant.
Increase the vacuum slowly.
Stop if you experience pain.
Keep the testicles and scrotal skin outside the tube.
Remove the constriction ring within 30 minutes.
Never fall asleep while wearing the ring.
Practise may be needed before using the device feels comfortable.
References
European Association of Urology. EAU guidelines on sexual and reproductive health. Arnhem, The Netherlands: EAU Guidelines Office; 2026.
Burnett AL, Nehra A, Breau RH, et al. Erectile dysfunction: AUA guideline. J Urol. 2018;200(3):633-641.
Wang R, Martins FE, Ralph D, et al. Vacuum erectile devices for erectile dysfunction: recommendations from the 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine. Sex Med Rev. 2025;13(2):172-183.