Using Vacuum Erection Therapy

The steps below show how to gain and maintain an erection with a vacuum erection therapy system.

Getting Started

  • Place the rubber tension ring on the open end of the cylinder.
  • Apply water-based lubricant to the end of the cylinder.
  • Put the penis into the cylinder. Hold the cylinder firmly against the abdomen to create a seal, but take care not to pinch the scrotum.

Gaining an Erection

  • Squeeze the hand pump or turn on the electric pump. Blood will be drawn into the penis and the penis will become erect and firm.
  • Follow the instructions you’ve been given for using your particular brand of pump.
  • It may take some practice before you get optimum erections.

Using the Tension Ring

  • When the penis is fully erect (usually less than 5 minutes), roll the tension ring off the cylinder onto the base of the penis. The tension ring holds blood in the penis, creating an erection. The area behind the ring remains soft and flexible.
  • Remove the cylinder from the penis.
  • After no longer than 30minutes, remove the tension ring from the penis by grasping the tabs on the ring and pulling to stretch the ring.

When to Call Your Doctor

  • A very cold penis during erection (some coolness is normal)
  • A black-and-blue or significantly darkened penis (some discoloration is normal)
  • Pain while using the vacuum device or tension ring
  • Lack of an erection or loss of an erection before the tension ring is removed

Note: The tension ring may block ejaculation during orgasm. This is harmless, but will NOT prevent pregnancy.