Hi John1975
Just two points on SOMAerect:
Yes, the rings are ridiculously small; they have to be able to 'trap' the blood to maintain erections. Of course if you don't need them it is great. I found that I need to use the ring or even two rings to maintain a strong and lasting erection. You get used to it: no pain no gain!
As for the cone to load the rings I don't use it, neither do I use the little 'O' ring-insert at the end of the vacuum cylinder.
If you feel you need to use a constricting ring I have a training video which I would be happy to send you, if it helps.
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi Antionette
The SOMAerect is what I was prescribed on the NHS along with tadalafil, which I've topped up with private purchase so I can take 10mg every other day. The NHS give me 4 x 20mg tablets every 3 weeks
I've not noticed any dramatic (if any shrinkage), obviously less enthusiastic at the moment though! I'm sure pump and pills are to thank for this.
Testicle size has reduced, though this should recover after a while once off ADT.
That's some information a couple of years ago I'd have been surprised to be sharing! 🤣.
User
Hi Antionette,
The kit I got with the SOMAerect included a sort of black cone you put over the end of the clear tube so you can roll/push the tension ring on, there was also some lube in the kit to help with this. I have to say I've not used the rings supplied as found them insanely tight and painful, I thought I'd do my self damage with them! I bought some less vicious ones from Lovehoney.
I've sometimes found the pump is enough along with tadalafil to get things going without a ring anyway. Things still work, just much less enthusiastically! There's also less desire, but not less love.
I've used the pump more for keep my penis/tissue healthy rather than for intercourse as you no longer get night time erections which naturally does this. So I use the pump for around ten mins slowly increasing the vacuum, holding for a bit, then releasing the vacuum and repeating. I can't remember what was included instruction wise with it. I had a consultation where I was shown what to do. I try and get a natural erection every other day or so as I feel this has to be even better heath wise than using the pump. Not always successfully! Or use the pump to help a natural one along a bit.
All the best
John
User
Hi John
I have checked and my mailbox is empty! I did this a couple of weeks ago but the system does not seem to have responded. As many have found this website does not always perform as it should. Email me on: [email protected] if the Administrator allows this message because ideally we should not reveal our email addresses!
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi Tony
Have you received the video I sent you?
Pratap
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi Antoinette
My inbox is actually empty but this system doesn't seem to recognise that! Anyway if you email me ([email protected]) I will send you the video.
Edited by member 12 Dec 2025 at 11:08
| Reason: Not specified
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Antoinette, Tell you husband to remember 5 Ps: Patience, Persistence, Perseverance, Passion, and Purpose. I could have added a little 'pain'. if and when he puts the ring on - it is worth it!!'
Edited by member 20 Dec 2025 at 11:16
| Reason: Not specified
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberHello, mate. I haven't seen you on here for ages. Great to have you back. I hope you're well.
I've never used a cock pump. I thought a cock ring was an audible alarm, warning when youre fully inflated? They've got something similar on the tyre pump at my local garage. Beep - beep- beep, when I reach 28 psi.
😂 It has been a while. I am doing good thanks. Thanks to you and the team for keeping this place going. I really appreciate you guys. It will be 4years since my surgery, the scars are still there but physically and mentally, but I am grateful, and everyday is a new day!
Show Most Thanked Posts
User
Hi Antionette
We have been using vacuum pumps for over 15 years and I have used Vacurect as well as the more usual ones like SOMAerect (iMedicare.co.uk), Primus and similar. I found Vacurect quite difficult to use and would recommend the others. SOMAerect is generally prescribed on the NHS. I have posted a survey based on my experience which you may like to have a look at the following link:
https://community.prostatecanceruk.org/posts/t28948-Re-establishing-Sex-Life
Edited by member 27 Nov 2025 at 12:39
| Reason: Not specified
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
We have now bought a SOMAerect. It looked less daunting. Husband bit daunted anyway, but is a practical down to earth chap, and can see he needs to stop his equipment from deteriorating as much as possible.
Another alarming side effect apparently is his penis will shrink. Hopefully the regular use of the pump will help with this.
One alarm after the other keeps popping up at the moment
User
Hi Antionette
The SOMAerect is what I was prescribed on the NHS along with tadalafil, which I've topped up with private purchase so I can take 10mg every other day. The NHS give me 4 x 20mg tablets every 3 weeks
I've not noticed any dramatic (if any shrinkage), obviously less enthusiastic at the moment though! I'm sure pump and pills are to thank for this.
Testicle size has reduced, though this should recover after a while once off ADT.
That's some information a couple of years ago I'd have been surprised to be sharing! 🤣.
User
Hi I value your wisdom here. The SOMAerect arrived. I've put it in the cupboard. Husband is going to look at it when he's ready. He has only had the Bicalutamide first.
I've had a look, not toooo scary but the tension rings, wow my goodness very very tight! I can't get the biggest one over the device. It will be useful to keep the blood flowing, he's keen on that but not sure I'd want him to risk severe strangulation! How do they work!
User
Hi Antionette,
The kit I got with the SOMAerect included a sort of black cone you put over the end of the clear tube so you can roll/push the tension ring on, there was also some lube in the kit to help with this. I have to say I've not used the rings supplied as found them insanely tight and painful, I thought I'd do my self damage with them! I bought some less vicious ones from Lovehoney.
I've sometimes found the pump is enough along with tadalafil to get things going without a ring anyway. Things still work, just much less enthusiastically! There's also less desire, but not less love.
I've used the pump more for keep my penis/tissue healthy rather than for intercourse as you no longer get night time erections which naturally does this. So I use the pump for around ten mins slowly increasing the vacuum, holding for a bit, then releasing the vacuum and repeating. I can't remember what was included instruction wise with it. I had a consultation where I was shown what to do. I try and get a natural erection every other day or so as I feel this has to be even better heath wise than using the pump. Not always successfully! Or use the pump to help a natural one along a bit.
All the best
John
User
Hi John1975
Just two points on SOMAerect:
Yes, the rings are ridiculously small; they have to be able to 'trap' the blood to maintain erections. Of course if you don't need them it is great. I found that I need to use the ring or even two rings to maintain a strong and lasting erection. You get used to it: no pain no gain!
As for the cone to load the rings I don't use it, neither do I use the little 'O' ring-insert at the end of the vacuum cylinder.
If you feel you need to use a constricting ring I have a training video which I would be happy to send you, if it helps.
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Oh John thank you so much. I think you're right. You are helping me/ us get out heads round this. I can cope with the loss of libido, but not a loss of love. The fear of the unknown isn't very nice. I know we have lots of both anyway. I feel anyone with a relationship like this is very fortunate, and hopefully can just get through it together.
Yes sound idea, how does anyone use those teeny bands, horrific! I don't want to traumatise him! As the body language guy says, thank you and much love and bliss
User
Someone here previously recommended using Durex "love rings" instead of the very tight SomaErect ones. But I can't personally endorse that, I have only used the pump for rehabilitation (i.e. ensuring the penis gets the benefit of occasional full engorgement without which there is a risk of tissue changes you don't want).
User
Hello Antionette,
You are more than welcome, I think fear of the unknown is one of the worst aspects of all this. That's why this forum is so good, if you have a worry or a question someone had already asked it of been through it.
Having a strong relationship like you and your husband clearly have is so important and helpful too!
All the best
John
User
Hi Pratap
thanks, so far so good with the pump, but I'd be interested in the video, just in case!
thanks
John
User
If you are interested in the video please send me a private message with your email address.
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Will do thanks, though it says your mailbox is full at the moment
User
Hi John
I have checked and my mailbox is empty! I did this a couple of weeks ago but the system does not seem to have responded. As many have found this website does not always perform as it should. Email me on: [email protected] if the Administrator allows this message because ideally we should not reveal our email addresses!
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi Pratap - I would love to get a copy of your video on pump use - I have tried your mailbox on here a few times and its always full. I also tried contacting you through your email address a couple of times but didnt get a reply - maybe my email went into your spam folder 🤷♂️ - I'll give it another try now - If all else fails I'll try posting my email here but it might not be allowed.
Tony
User
Just wanted to repeat my thanks to you. Husband has got pump, we looked at it together. He used to teach science, biology, so is fine. He's used it for the first time before his shower and said its very effective. I'm comparing it to my oestrogen cream I insert 2 x a week so we're both keeping healthy. Lucky women if we have practical caring men like yourself and my husband
User
Hi Tony
Have you received the video I sent you?
Pratap
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Well done Antoinette
As a couple you sound very much like us. I was willing and my wife was determined to help me to re-establish our sex life despite my erectile dysfunction and arousal climacturia. My wife discovered an amazing vaginal lubricant called YES YES YES! which ensures her comfort despite my lack of natural lubrication. We don't think that the medics who treat prostate cancer patients are particularly interested or have the knowledge of how to advise men and their wives/partners about how to deal with the after effects of treatments on their intimate lives. It is important for couples like us to talk frankly and explicitly - if appropriate - about how we continue to enjoy sex.
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi Handons
It depends on what you want to use the pump for. Some pumps are for fun, in bath/shower, but for more serious ED problems you have to use a medical grade pump such as SOMAerect (NHS prescribed) or similar with constricting rings.
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi Pratap I've tried to message you for video on SOMAerect but your inbox is full. It just shows how needed advice is and how you are the one to turn to
Best wishes ❤️
User
Hi Antoinette
My inbox is actually empty but this system doesn't seem to recognise that! Anyway if you email me ([email protected]) I will send you the video.
Edited by member 12 Dec 2025 at 11:08
| Reason: Not specified
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Pratap, It may be the sent items which is full rather than the inbox. You have to clear both every so often.
|
User
Hi after husband saw his GP she prescribed Tadalafil but 4 tablets a month. I'm trying to share with him the information I find but let him deal with things himself. I thought he might be given the 5mg a day sort, but I don't think this is.
We're just seeing how this goes! I'm not the sort of wife who's lost interest, I'm the complete opposite 🙃.
User
Hi Pratap - yep i got your video - many thanks, very useful 👍.
User
Hi husband has had several tries with the SOMAerect and it has a knack to it. He's only started injections recently but we both want him to stay as healthy as possible. As he gets more effected by it we thought he might use it every morning for 10 minutes to keep the tissues healthy.
It works OK tbh I think he's rushed it a bit
User
Antoinette, Tell you husband to remember 5 Ps: Patience, Persistence, Perseverance, Passion, and Purpose. I could have added a little 'pain'. if and when he puts the ring on - it is worth it!!'
Edited by member 20 Dec 2025 at 11:16
| Reason: Not specified
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi tomas done, If you need to use it either for rehabilitation and/or achieving a strong and sustainable erection vacuums pump is a great idea. Of course many prefer in injections etc. Have look at the following link:
https://community.prostatecanceruk.org/posts/t28948-Re-establishing-Sex-Life
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi yes he tried a softer ring but I'm just so impressed with his open minded practical attitude.
I'm not swamping him but we'll just take things steady. I've been exploring tantric massage!
User
User
I see you've only just joined!
No he definitely doesn't need one of those!
User
I know I am probably in the minority. I could not get the hang of using SomaErect, however can 100% swear by Vaccurect. I use it with ease. less than 50secs I am al pumped up ready to go, with a vibrating cock ring to boot as an extra.
User
Hello, mate. I haven't seen you on here for ages. Great to have you back. I hope you're well.
I've never used a cock pump. I thought a cock ring was an audible alarm, warning when youre fully inflated? They've got something similar on the tyre pump at my local garage. Beep - beep- beep, when I reach 28 psi.
User
Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberHello, mate. I haven't seen you on here for ages. Great to have you back. I hope you're well.
I've never used a cock pump. I thought a cock ring was an audible alarm, warning when youre fully inflated? They've got something similar on the tyre pump at my local garage. Beep - beep- beep, when I reach 28 psi.
😂 It has been a while. I am doing good thanks. Thanks to you and the team for keeping this place going. I really appreciate you guys. It will be 4years since my surgery, the scars are still there but physically and mentally, but I am grateful, and everyday is a new day!
User
Hi All, Reading this post about pumps, I canrt seem to get the hang of the Somaerect. It just doesnt seem to do anything - any tips on what Im doing wrong?
User
Hi
If you private message PRATAP who is in the thread,he may be able to help.
I use a Soma erect to good effect ,I found that applying plenty of lubricant where the tube meets your body is key ,pubic hair can also effect the seal.
Good luck
Swannie
User
Hi IMF73
If you let me have your email address via a private message I can send you a training video which others have found useful. Private messaging system does not seem to work. My email address is [email protected]
Edited by member 12 Feb 2026 at 12:04
| Reason: Not specified
'Physics is like sex: sure, it may give some practical results, but that’s not why we do it.' Richard Feynman (1918-1988) Nobel Prize laureate |
User
Hi all, not been on myself for a while...
My Pharmacy has been unable to source the Ultimate surefit rings when I requested it on my repeat prescriptions. It's never been an issue before, anyone else experiencing supply issues?
Maybe time to switch pharmacy !
regards
Andrew
User