Introduction
Millions of men deal with erectile dysfunction (ED). The problem gets more common as men age. Pills like Viagra often help, but they’re not for everyone. Vacuum pumps offer another way to treat ED without drugs. Let’s look at the best vacuum pumps, their pros and cons, and how to pick the right one for you.
What Are Vacuum Erection Devices?
How They Work
Vacuum pumps use suction around the penis to pull blood into it. This extra blood flow causes an erection. A tight ring then keeps the blood in place. This holds the erection during sex.
“Vacuum therapy works through a simple physical rule,” says Dr. Irwin Goldstein, a sex medicine expert. “The suction draws blood into the penis, making it hard enough for sex.”
Main Parts
- Tube – Clear cylinder that fits over the penis
- Pump – Creates the suction (hand-powered or battery)
- Rings – Hold blood in the penis after pumping
- Lube – Creates an airtight seal for better suction
Types of Vacuum Pumps
Hand-Powered Pumps
You squeeze these pumps by hand to create suction.
Good Points:
- Cost less money
- No need for batteries
- You control the pressure
- Easy to carry around
Not-So-Good Points:
- Need hand strength
- Tough for men with arthritis
Battery-Powered Pumps
These use batteries to create suction at the push of a button.
Good Points:
- Easier to use
- Steady, even pressure
- Better pressure control
Not-So-Good Points:
- Cost more money
- Need new batteries or charging
- Bigger and harder to hide
Top Vacuum Pumps for ED
Best Overall: Encore Deluxe Battery Vacuum Erection Device
The Encore Deluxe is easy to use and works well in tests. It runs on batteries and comes with many ring sizes.
Key Features:
- FDA-approved for ED
- Comes with different tension options
- Easy to control pressure
- Includes many ring sizes
“The Encore system works well for my patients,” says Dr. Michael Werner, who runs a men’s health clinic. “It’s easy to use and gets good results.”
Best Hand-Powered: Osbon ErecAid Classic
The Osbon ErecAid has helped men for many years. Many studies back up how well it works.
Key Features:
- Long history of success
- Built to last
- Comes with helpful guides
- Many insurance plans cover it
Best Battery-Powered: VaxAid Deluxe
The VaxAid Deluxe has great features and feels good to use.
Key Features:
- Works in water (for shower use)
- Battery can be recharged
- Soft, comfy materials
- Screen shows pressure level
Best Budget Choice: BLSHOK Manual Vacuum Pump
If you need a cheaper option that still works well:
Key Features:
- Costs less
- Easy to use
- Comes with basic rings
- See-through tube lets you watch progress
Best for Travel: Pos-T-Vac BOS-2000
Made to take on trips, this pump is small and comes in a plain case.
Key Features:
- Small size
- Plain case hides what’s inside
- Quick to set up
- Safe to take through airport checks
Do Vacuum Pumps Really Work?
Studies show vacuum pumps help most men who try them. A big review in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found 68-80% of men were happy with results. They had fewer side effects than with ED pills.
A 2022 study in Urology showed that using vacuum pumps after prostate surgery helped men keep their penis size.
Dr. Trinity Bivalacqua, a top urologist, says: “Vacuum devices help keep the penis healthy after prostate surgery. They prevent shrinking that can happen when blood flow drops.”
How to Choose Your Vacuum Pump
Health Factors
- Medical issues – Some health problems may need special features
- Blood thinners – May need lower pressure settings
- After surgery – May need special care after prostate surgery
Practical Issues
- Ease of use – Think about your hand strength
- Cost – Prices range from $100 to over $500
- Privacy – Think about size, noise, and storage
- Help if needed – Look for good customer service
Dr. Judson Brandeis, a sex medicine expert, says: “Try different tension rings with your device. The right ring makes a big difference in comfort and results.”
How to Use a Vacuum Pump
Step by Step
- Put water-based lube on your penis base and the edge of the tube
- Place the tube over your penis, making a tight seal at the base
- Use the pump to create suction
- When erect, slide the ring from the tube onto your penis base
- Remove the tube
- Take off the ring after sex (never wear longer than 30 minutes)
Safety Tips
- Never wear the ring more than 30 minutes
- Start with low pressure and slowly increase
- Stop if you feel pain or see bruising
- Talk to your doctor first if you have:
- Blood disorders
- History of priapism (painful, long-lasting erection)
- Take blood thinners
- Have loss of feeling in your penis
Will Insurance Pay?
Many health plans cover vacuum pumps when your doctor says you need one. To get coverage, you usually need:
- A doctor’s note saying you have ED
- A prescription
- Pre-approval in some cases
Medicare cut back on coverage in 2015, but many private plans still pay. Check with your insurance to be sure.
More Than Just a Device
Vacuum pumps work best as part of a complete ED plan.
Dr. Mohit Khera from Baylor College of Medicine suggests: “Think of vacuum therapy as one part of your sex health plan. Also look at lifestyle changes, pelvic exercises, and your mental health.”
Other Helpful Steps
- Lifestyle changes – Exercise more, quit smoking, drink less
- Pelvic floor work – Exercises to build up support muscles
- Mental health – Deal with stress and relationship issues
- Regular use – Using the pump often may help natural erections
Common Questions
Q: Do vacuum pumps work for all types of ED? A: They can help most types of ED, but results vary. They work best for ED tied to blood flow issues and after surgery.
Q: How long will my erection last? A: Most men report erections lasting 20-30 minutes. Never keep the ring on longer than 30 minutes to avoid harm.
Q: Will it hurt? A: When used right, vacuum pumps shouldn’t hurt. You may feel pressure, but pain means you’re using too much force.
Q: Will a vacuum pump make my penis bigger for good? A: No. No solid proof shows they make lasting size changes. They’re medical tools for ED, not for making you bigger.
Q: How often can I use it? A: Most doctors say daily use is safe if you follow the rules. Some post-surgery plans even suggest short sessions more than once a day.
Conclusion
Vacuum pumps offer a drug-free way to treat ED. Many men find they work well with few side effects. When picking a pump, think about your health needs, budget, and how easy it is to use. No single pump works for everyone, but the ones in this guide rank among the best based on tests, expert views, and user feedback.
For best results, talk to your doctor before starting. This is extra important if you have health issues or use other ED treatments.