Menstuff® has compiled the following information on solutions
for Erectial Dysfunction.
Vacuum devices for erection problems
See an illustration of a vacuum device.
The constrictive band may be left in place for up to 30 minutes. If you want the erection to last longer, you may remove the band for a few minutes and then repeat the process.
Vacuum devices block ejaculation. You still have an orgasm but do not ejaculate (release semen).
Some men say the erection is "wobbly" or has a "hingelike" feeling, since the tissues beneath the ring on the base of the penis don't get hard. A small number of men consider this a major problem, and it may make penetration difficult.
A prescription is not needed to buy these devices. They are reusable and should be cleaned after each use.
What To Expect After Treatment
The device usually produces an erection, which goes away when the constrictive band is removed.
Why It Is Done
Most men who have erection problems from physical causes can use vacuum devices. Men who have erection problems because of psychological causes may also use these devices.
These devices can be used by men who take medications to prevent blood clots (anticoagulants, such as warfarin [Coumadin]).
How Well It Works
Studies indicate that more than 90% of men using these devices are able to get an erection that is satisfactory for sexual intercourse.1
Most men and their partners are satisfied with the device and the quality of the erections. Studies have reported satisfaction rates ranging from 70% to 94%. However, some studies report that only 26% to 30% of men are satisfied with the erections they receive from a vacuum device.1
Most men who stop using the vacuum device do so for a variety of reasons, including inconvenience and interruption of foreplay (the man has to take a brief "time-out" to use the device to get an erection). Your satisfaction with the device may be better if you meet with a representative of the manufacturer who can show you how to use the device correctly. Your doctor can arrange a meeting.
Regular use may improve success and satisfaction. Most men who use the device successfully for 3 months continue to use it. With regular use, the time it takes to get an erection decreases.
Men who have erection problems from psychological factors may regain the ability to have unaided erections after using the device for a time.
The cause of the erection problem (blood vessel, nerve, or psychological) does not appear to affect the results. The device also may produce erections in men who have had a failed penile implant.
Risks
The risk of side effects is low and they are usually minor. Possible problems may include:
What To Think About
Be sure to discuss using a vacuum device with your partner. It is important that both of you have realistic expectations of what the device can do. The vacuum device gives you an erection that may be suitable for sexual intercourse but is not the same as a normal erection.
A trial period at home is helpful. The device can be difficult to learn to use, and about four tries are needed to learn to use it successfully.
Some men find the band around the base of the penis distracting or irritating during sex. Also, the band may prevent ejaculation.
Complete the special treatment information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this treatment.
Citations
Levine LA, Dimitriou RS (2001). Vacuum constriction and external erection devices in erectile dysfunction. Urologic Clinics of North America, 28(2): 335–341.
Author Paul Lehnert
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Michele Cronen
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Nancy Greenwald, MD - Physical Medicine
and Rehabilitation
Source: www.webmd.com/erectile-dysfunction/Vacuum-devices-for-erection-problems?ecd=wnl_erd_061607
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