Alternative Options for Treating Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is becoming well known as the stigma of it has decreased over the past 10 years. Many medications exist on the market to help treat and control erectile dysfunction, but what are the options if a male chooses to not take drugs? A vacuum constriction device, also known as a penis pump, has become a reasonable and low cost treatment option for erectile dysfunction. These constriction devices may also be useful in cases in which Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra are ineffective. Vacuum constriction devices should not be used by men who may have a significant congenital bleeding disorder, or a disorder that predisposes them to a condition called priapism, which is a prolonged and painful erection which may last over several hours. Examples of these disorders include sickle cell anemia, certain forms of leukemia, and other blood conditions.
A penis pump device consists of an acrylic tube and a pumping mechanism. The pumping mechanism may consist of a squeeze ball, a hand grip, a plunger, or an electric device. The user pumps air out of the tube which results in the vacuum increasing blood flow into the erectile tissue. A “constriction ring” is then slid over the base of the penis to help maintain the erection when the tube is removed. Reviews have been mixed on the penis pump indicating that a vacuum erection may not always feel like the real thing. Sources have revealed that erections produced with a penis pump are sometimes cold and/or numb and semi-flaccid. However, many clinical studies have shown high rates of satisfaction among those who receive the vacuum treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Vacuum pumps have also been proven to be successful in studies of penile rehabilitation. Certain procedures, including but not limited to, radical prostatectomies, may cause temporary impotence resulting from nerve damage. If a male goes too long without a spontaneous erection, some of the penile tissue can atrophy, which will likely result in long term dysfunction. The use of a penis pump in this instance may help to stave off this damage. Studies have shown that 50-80% of men are satisfied with the results of a penis pump. As with any other method of treatment for erectile dysfunction, the rates of satisfaction may decrease over time.
Penis pumps are available for purchase over the counter. Pumps are purchased not only by men with erectile dysfunction, but also by men who choose to use them for masturbation purposes or to help increase their length or girth. There are many myths indicating that using a penis pump will increase the size of the penis, but there is no medical literature which shows that vacuum constriction will produce a lasting change in penis size. Overuse of the penis pump could potentially damage the penis. Men should only purchase a penis pump that comes with a “vacuum limiter” which automatically lets air in if too much negative pressure builds up in the tube. Excessive pumping without the vacuum limiter may cause penile bruising or even cause serious tissue damage
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