Prescription vacuum devices help men experiencing erectile dysfunction acquire and maintain an erection. These devices provide a solution for men when surgery represents a poor choice and erectile dysfunction medications failed to work. Further, the device becomes an effective tool for men who experience sexual difficulty following prostate surgery, according to MayoClinic.com. The American Cancer Society states that vacuum devices have a success rate of 50 to 70 percent. Vacuum devices work by pulling blood into the penis, causing it swell. By obtaining a prescription for the vacuum device, you increase the chance that the device matches your needs, as well as meets safety standards, according to MayoClinic.com. (See References 1, 3 and 4)
Step 1
Read all directions and warnings specifically pertaining to the vacuum device model prescribed to you. Note that vacuum devices have varying means of operation.
Step 2
Place the tension ring or band at the open end of the vacuum device.
Step 3
Position the plastic tubing of the vacuum device over your penis.
Step 4
Pump the vacuum device to create a vacuum inside the tube around your penis. Depending on the model, the vacuum device operates by either an electric pump or a hand pump.
Step 5
Push the tension ring or band down around the base of your penis. This helps you maintain the erection.
Step 6
Take off the vacuum device.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice using the device in order to learn how to use it correctly. After becoming proficient at using the device, it takes two to three minutes to obtain an erection, according to MayoClinic.com. (See References 2 and 3) Use the vacuum device either before initiating sex or after sexual foreplay, according to the American Cancer Society. (See References 3)
- Do not leave the tension ring or band on the penis for longer than 30 minutes, according to MayoClinic.com. (See References 2)
