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Frequently asked questions
The most common questions about vacuum therapy, using the constriction ring, safety, sex life and device care. If you can’t find what you are looking for, write to us using the request form.
About vacuum therapy and the device
The most common questions about what a penile vacuum device is, what it is designed to do and who it is suitable for.
01What is a penile vacuum device and how does it work?
A penile vacuum device is a mechanical erection aid made up of a clear cylinder, a pump that draws the air out of that cylinder, and a constriction ring placed at the base of the penis. When the pressure inside the cylinder is lowered, the resulting negative pressure relative to the surrounding tissue draws blood into the spongy erectile tissue of the penis (the corpus cavernosum) and the penis becomes firm. The ring is then slid onto the base of the penis to stop the blood from flowing back too quickly, so the erection is maintained after the cylinder is removed. Because the process is entirely physical, no active substance enters the body.
02Is vacuum erection therapy a scientifically recognised method?
Yes. Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) have been used to treat erectile dysfunction for more than 30 years and are listed among the non-drug treatment options in international urology guidelines. They are also widely recommended in penile rehabilitation protocols after radical prostatectomy.
03What exactly is included with Active3?
A rechargeable electric pump head, an illuminated clear cylinder (200 mm long, 53 mm inner diameter), ring loaders no. 1 and no. 2, a cone, 5 constriction rings with inner diameters of 9, 12, 15, 18 and 21 mm, 50 ml of Animé lubricant, a charging cable and USB adapter, the instructions for use and a storage case. It is a Class IIa medical device manufactured in Germany.
04What is the difference between the electric (Active3) and the manual system?
Both work on the same physical principle. The electric head builds the vacuum with a motor; because it operates at the touch of a button, it is noticeably easier for users with reduced hand strength, arthritis or grip problems. With the manual system the vacuum is created with a hand pump, and the user controls the rise in pressure entirely at their own pace. Active3 additionally has an illuminated cylinder. The pump heads and cylinders of the AES and MES series are compatible with each other.
05In which situations does the device make an erection easier?
A vacuum device draws blood into the erectile tissue using an externally applied pressure difference, so it is less dependent on the body’s own vascular and nerve response. It works mechanically even with hardening of the arteries, diabetes-related nerve damage or after prostate surgery, and the constriction ring maintains the resulting erection. Even so, a urological assessment is recommended to establish the cause of the erection problem.
Use, ring selection and timing
The practical side of using it: which ring, for how long, in what order.
01How long can the ring stay on?
No more than 30 minutes. This limit is not negotiable: because the ring restricts blood flow, leaving it on longer can impair the blood supply to the tissue. Remove the ring as soon as intercourse is over; circulation returns to normal on its own.
02Which ring size should I choose?
Start with the largest ring on your first try. If the erection cannot be maintained once the ring is on, move down one size; if there is pinching, pain or noticeable discomfort, move up one size. The right ring is the one that maintains firmness without causing pain, and it varies from person to person. That trial and error is exactly why the set includes 5 different sizes.
03Is lubricant necessary?
In practice, yes. Lubricant helps the cylinder seal fully against the skin so the vacuum does not leak, and it also makes it easier for the ring to slide onto the base of the penis. The set includes 50 ml of Animé lubricant for this purpose.
04How often can I use the device?
As often as you need, provided you follow the instructions for use. Some users also apply it regularly without the aim of intercourse, simply to support blood flow to the tissue; in rehabilitation after prostate surgery, doctors often recommend a programme of this kind.
05The vacuum won’t build and no erection forms. What should I do?
Check the following in order: make sure the cylinder sits fully and airtight against the groin, apply lubricant to its rim and trim the hair if necessary; build the vacuum gradually rather than all at once; and review your ring size. To find out whether the device itself is working, you can place the cylinder on your thigh or abdomen and test the vacuum. If pump performance has dropped, check the charge level and make sure the air outlets are not blocked.
06Firmness decreases after I put the ring on.
This is usually a sign that the ring is one size too large; try the next smaller size. As described in the instructions for use, it is also possible to reapply the vacuum with the ring in place by using the ring’s tabs.
07It is difficult to remove the penis from the cylinder.
Release all the air using the release button. If the difficulty persists, use a larger ring loader or try the cylinder without a ring loader. Never use force at any stage.
Safety, side effects and health conditions
The expected effects of vacuum therapy, situations that call for care and points on which you should consult a doctor.
01Are there any side effects?
Because no active substance enters the body, systemic side effects are not expected. Mild and usually temporary effects related to use may occur: small bruises on the skin (more likely in people taking blood thinners), a temporary feeling of discomfort and a cool sensation in the penis. When used in accordance with the instructions for use, there is no expectation of an increased risk of thrombosis.
02Who should not use it?
It should not be used with conditions associated with prolonged erections, certain blood and clotting disorders, or where a doctor has advised against sexual activity. It should also not be used if any part is damaged, while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, in the shower or bath, or while the device is charging. If in doubt, consult your doctor before use.
03I take blood thinners. Is it suitable for me?
Taking blood thinners is not an absolute barrier, but the likelihood of bruising increases. Building the vacuum more gradually and keeping the pressure low helps. For this group, it is advisable to obtain your doctor’s approval before use.
04Is it normal for the penis to feel cold and change colour?
Because the ring restricts blood flow, it is expected that the penis will feel somewhat cool and its colour will darken. Warming measures before use (a warm shower, heating the room) reduce discomfort. If there is pain, marked discoloration or numbness, remove the ring immediately.
05I have Peyronie’s disease (curvature of the penis). Can I use it?
Use is possible in some cases of Peyronie’s disease where the penis can be placed in the cylinder. Because the degree of curvature and any pain are decisive, this assessment must be made by a urologist.
06I have urinary incontinence. Will that be a problem?
Vacuum therapy can be used in this situation too. For ease of cleaning, some users prefer the manual system; on Active3 the pump head must not be immersed in water and its outer surface is wiped with a damp cloth, while the other parts are washed with warm water and mild soap.
Intercourse, ejaculation and having children
The practical effects of use on sex life and fertility.
01Can I ejaculate with the ring on?
The sensation of orgasm remains; however, because the ring also partly compresses the urethra, semen may be held back temporarily and not appear outside. This is usually harmless, and semen is expelled normally once the ring is removed.
02Can couples who want to have children use it?
Yes. The manufacturer’s ACTIVE LOOP RING model can be chosen to make it easier for semen to be expelled. For couples planning a pregnancy, it is best to manage the process together with a urology/andrology specialist.
03Do the rings provide contraception?
No. Constriction rings are in no way a method of contraception and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
04The penis looks larger. Is this permanent?
Immediately after use, the penis may temporarily look fuller due to the increased blood volume. This is temporary; the device is not a tool for permanent enlargement. Its real benefit is that, by maintaining blood flow to the tissue, it helps prevent the loss of length and girth seen after prostate surgery.
05Can it be used together with other treatments?
Use alongside treatments such as intracavernosal injection therapy (ICI) may be possible; user feedback suggests that the medication spreads through the tissue better during a vacuum-assisted erection. The decision to combine treatments must always be made with your doctor.
Charging, care, warranty and ordering
Day-to-day care of the device, spare parts and the delivery process.
01What does the charge indicator mean?
Repeated red flashing: the battery is almost empty. Steady red while charging: charging is in progress. White: fully charged and ready to use. Fully charge the device before first use and after long periods without use.
02How do I clean the device?
The pump head is only wiped on the outside with a damp cloth and must never be immersed in water. The cylinder, rings, loaders and cone are washed with warm water and mild soap and then dried. All parts, including the rings, can be reordered later.
03What does the warranty cover?
A 2-year warranty is provided for the pump head (motor) and most of the components. Consumable/wear parts such as the rings are not covered by the warranty. Do not open the device or attempt to repair it yourself; in the event of a fault, contact the service department.
04Can I use rings from other brands?
No. Only original constriction rings should be used. Rings with different elasticity and sizes apply unsafe pressure and also void the warranty.
05How does ordering work, and how is the package delivered?
Once you fill in the form, we get back to you with current pricing, stock and delivery information for your country. The product is shipped in a neutral box that gives no indication of its contents; the product name does not appear on the shipping label.
06Do you ship outside Türkiye, to Arab countries?
Yes. In addition to Türkiye, we ship to all Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Libya. International shipments are also packed in a neutral box that gives no indication of its contents. The current price, shipping cost and delivery time for your country are communicated to you individually via the request form or WhatsApp.
07What documentation is available for the device?
Active3 is placed on the European market as a Class IIa medical device bearing the CE mark and is manufactured in Germany. The CE declaration of conformity, the EC certificate from the notified body (mdc · 0483), the manufacturer’s EN ISO 13485 quality certificate and the MDR transition confirmation letter are published on the documents page as original PDFs with translations. You can confirm the current supply status for your country via the request form.
Info & order
Is your question not on the list?
Fill in the form; your question is forwarded to the team that works with the device and we will get back to you. For matters that require a medical decision, we recommend a urological assessment.
Open the request form