A pierced septum valve is disclosed herein. The pierced septum valve includes a septum (50) that is located within a lumen of a body (14). A septum activator (80) is positioned proximal the septum within the lumen of the body. A seal (98) is disposed between an outer surface of the septum activator and the body to seal the portion of the septum activator distal the lumen from the portion of the septum activator proximal the lumen. One or more vents (100) are disposed between the seal and the lumen of the body to permits the passage of air but not blood past the seal.