5 Things You Should Know About Medical Penis Pumps

If you’re a man looking for erectile dysfunction (ED) solutions, there are many drugs, herbal supplements, devices, and therapeutic treatments to choose from. So many commercials portray simple ED remedies and seemingly happy couples.  With these various choices, which are legitimate medical treatments?

Endorsements and product promotions can be unclear. Some seem intentionally confusing. The lines that separate medical treatments and lifestyle enhancement products are often unclear.  Have you ever questioned an herbal supplement advertisement that had the appearance of a legitimate medical treatment?   

This is partly how herbal supplements and novelty products are passed off as effective medical treatments.  Furthermore, many men don’t discuss the topic of erectile dysfunction with a partner. As a result, fundamental communication about the condition of erectile dysfunction and effective treatment results are not transparent. This creates gaps between perception and reality.

Numerous promoters of pills, gels, drinks, pumps, and herbal supplements put a Young man on a clever label claiming rock hard erections.  A normal guy with ED who tries this kind of product may internalize a bad experience with a gimmicky lifestyle enhancement product as a personal or medical failure. He may or may not share his experience.

Medical grade penis pumps are one of the most effective ED treatments available.  There are over 800 clinical studies published on medical penis pumps.  What is the difference between a medical grade penis pump and one that is non-medical?

Guide to Penis Pumps

 

Is your penis pump approved by the FDA?

 

Did you know that any penis pump (vacuum erection device) that makes a medical claim such as treating erectile dysfunction should be registered with the FDA? Unfortunately, many manufacturers do not register and this is not visible to consumers.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires external penile rigidity devices (also known as penis pumps) to comply with Class II Special Controls. All mechanical, powered, and pneumatic devices that are designed to create or maintain erections sufficiently strong for sexual intercourse must comply with certain design and safety features.

This means that manufacturers of medical penis pumps must follow certain standards and recommendations before commercially distributing their device and marketing it to the public. In addition, the FDA recommends certain measures to mitigate known risks and ensure the safe use of penis pumps with best results. For the consumer, this provides an assurance of safety and effectiveness.

 

The safest penis pump is a medical grade penis pump

 

Manufacturers of medical grade penis pumps are subject to routine FDA inspections to ensure quality standards are being followed.  These standards make a penis pump safe to use.  Manufacturers must establish and follow quality systems to help ensure that their products consistently meet applicable requirements and specifications.  These are known as current good manufacturing practices (CMPG’s).

According to FDA guidelines, medical penis pumps must have safety-related design features, some of which include:

• A manual safety mechanism to allow quick release of vacuum pressure.
• No feature that promotes extended or continuous use beyond the recommended time.
• A safety valve to ensure vacuum pressure remains within safe levels.
• Smooth shape and surface to minimize potential injury to the user and their partner.
• Adequate electrical safety in powered devices.
• Easy-to-understand instructions with illustrations on how to operate the device.
• Warning statements and consequences of not following instructions on proper use.

Knowing that the device purchased is an FDA-Registered medical penis pump should answer an important question. Are penis pumps safe? This level of adherence to standards and quality commitment is designed to prevent injury and ensure both the user and their partner achieve predictable and reliable results. Read our guide to penis pumps for more information on using these devices correctly and the benefits that can be expected.

 

Medical grade penis pumps are the most effective in treating ED

 

Even though FDA requirements are crystal clear about registration and quality standards, many products manufacturers do not comply with good manufacturing practices (GMP). Multiple devices that are misbranded as able to treat erectile dysfunction are available online, in novelty sex shops and some may even be in drug stores. Some of them are not safe.

Others do not offer the correct pressure and features needed to effectively treat erectile dysfunction. By purchasing these novelty devices (which are essentially just sex toys), the consumer is at risk of injury to themselves and their partner. In addition, these novelty toys may also not produce the expected results in men with erection problems. On the other hand, manufacturers of medical penis pumps are committed to aligning their product with consumer expectations without compromising on safety. This means the user is assured of a certain standard in quality, effectiveness, and safety.

When used correctly, a medical grade penis pump provides erections on demand for up to 30 minutes. These devices are recommended by physicians before and after prostate surgery for penile rehabilitation. They are a noninvasive treatment option if someone does not wish to undergo penile implant surgery.

Some men may wonder – is Viagra safe with high blood pressure? Penis pumps are associated with fewer adverse health risks in men taking high blood pressure medications. They are an effective alternative when oral ED medications such as Viagra and Cialis are not an option.

 

Medicare no longer covers medical vacuum therapy devices

 

In 2015, Medicare stopped covering vacuum erection devices. During the past few years, most private insurance carriers have followed the example set by Medicare and phased out insurance coverage for erectile dysfunction pumps. Although unfortunate, this is not different from the coverage of oral ED medications. Drugs for sexual impotence, such as Viagra, have been labeled “lifestyle” drugs and are not covered by Medicare or most private insurance.

Many physicians and men seeking ED solutions are reporting a sharp rise in the availability and visibility of non-medical “sex toys” making medical claims following the decision by Medicare and private insurance companies to discontinue coverage of medical vacuum therapy devices.

Aside from this phenomenon, men with erectile dysfunction must pay out-of-pocket for treatment of erectile dysfunction. Options include oral medications such as Viagra that work by increasing blood flow to the penis. However, these may not be effective or may cause side effects. Also, they can cost up to $50 per pill. 

Penile implant surgery is not only invasive but also expensive, costing up to $20,000. Which means medical penis pumps are the most cost-effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. These devices are less expensive in the long run compared to medications and other treatments. They can be used repeatedly with few recurring costs.

 

Always buy a medical penis pump from a reputable company

 

The founders of Augusta Medical Systems spent over 35 years working directly with prescribing physicians, product users, and clinical educators worldwide.  Since 2004 Augusta Medical Systems has offered the discerning customer the very best in vacuum therapy technology.

Our unwavering commitment to quality and continued focus on improving and refining our products has enabled us to maintain a leadership position in the industry. There are several advantages to buying erectile dysfunction pumps from a reputable company like Augusta Medical Systems.

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Facts and Myths About Penis Exercises

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition among men who are treating diabetes, hypertension, and other physical as well as psychological issues. Fortunately, ED is treatable.

It is possible to manage erectile dysfunction with a range of treatment options.

Several proven ED treatments include oral medications like Viagra. Injectable solutions such as Caverject or Edex. External non-invasive medical penis pumps are over 90% effective. Penile implant surgery is by far the most invasive and expensive solution, but a very effective procedure. But what about exercises and penile health?

Facts and myths about penis exercise are difficult to separate. How do penis erection exercises impact erectile dysfunction? Can penis exercises enlarge your penis? Is there any exercise helpful for premature ejaculation? Do pelvic floor exercises benefit men with sexual performance issues?

Penis Exercises Help You Have Better Erections                                                                                    

Pelvic floor training as a form of penis exercises can have benefits for penile health in men who suffer from erection problems or premature ejaculation. Men who simply want an improved sex life may find penis erection exercises in the form of Kegel exercises (KE) to be an effective and relatively easy long-term solution.

Pelvic floor muscles, nerves in the penis, and blood circulation are critical components of strong erections.

Pelvic floor exercises improve erectile function by increasing the tone and bulk of pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor training (KE) will strengthen pelvic floor muscles. Strong pelvic floor muscles are vital for holding blood in penile tissues while preventing it from leaving the penis during an erection.

Good blood circulation is known to improve general health. Penile tissue like other tissues and organs in the body benefit from increased oxygenated blood flow.  Erections are blood filling events that stretch penile tissues. 

For this reason, proven ED treatments have the potential to be useful as tools for penis erection exercises.

Oral medications, injections, and penis pumps create erections. While these treatments directly produce erections, they also increase blood flow to the penis. Penile expansion and the stretching of penile tissue simultaneously improves circulation which also exercises the penis and creates penile health. This is particularly true if a treatment allows a man to create and release multiple erections in one training or exercise session.  

However, men who desire to use these treatments as a potential form of penis exercise do have variables to consider.  One will naturally evaluate recurring costs. Also, the repetitive ingestion of medications or cyclical use of needles could come with side effects that can have negative health consequences.

Limitations around the use of a traditional ED treatment for training or exercising the penis for penile health will eliminate most medications.

Kegel exercises do not directly exercise the penis.  In spite of this, pelvic floor exercises create ample blood flow to the groin area and according to published articles can play a confirmed role in treating or preventing erectile dysfunction.

More blood flow will produce harder erections. Here are some of the benefits of Kegel exercises as a form of penis exercises:

 

Improved hardness of erections

 

Training pelvic floor muscles boost the flow of oxygenated blood in the groin area. Greater blood flow can be a critical component in harder erections. Exercises that strengthen the muscles in the pelvic floor are a long term approach to penis health compared to drug or device interventions that focus solely on the penis.

Studies conclude strong pelvic floor muscles make erectile function possible. Pelvic floor exercises promote healthy penile tissue and penile health by putting pressure on veins and muscles that are active during the formation of erections.

The benefits of pelvic floor exercises as a form of erectile dysfunction exercises have been the subject of several reports.

In one study conducted in the United Kingdom, participants ranging in age from 22 to 78 years old were divided into two groups. The intervention group was advised to engage in pelvic floor exercises along with suggestions for lifestyle changes.

The control group only received advice on lifestyle changes.

Six months later, men in the intervention group who engaged in pelvic floor training exercises showed significant improvement in erectile function compared to men in the control group.

 

Increased pleasure during sex

 

Strong Pelvic floor muscles and improved blood flow as a form of erectile dysfunction exercises allow a man to have more intense orgasms during sex. According to a published report in the Sexual Medicine Review, Authors concluded: “Strong muscles that are exercised by KE (pelvic floor training) may enhance and intensify orgasmic pleasure during ejaculation/orgasm.”

 

More control over erections

 

Penis exercises such as Kegels strengthen the muscles within the perineum which contribute to control over erections, the contractions of orgasm, and ejaculation. These muscles help blood to stay in the shaft of the penis during an erection.

Strong pelvic floor muscles help maintain penile health, giving a man more control over harder erections with improved probability of preventing premature ejaculation.

 

Penis Exercises Help You Delay Ejaculation

 

Ejaculation and orgasm are not quite the same thing but occur simultaneously. Ejaculation control plays an essential role in sexual enjoyment for men and their partners. Premature ejaculation affects up to 40 percent of men with a peak incidence between ages 25 and 40.

Untreated premature ejaculation can lead to distress, frustration, and avoidance of sexual intimacy. In addition to improving erectile dysfunction, penis erection exercises in the form of Kegel exercises can delay premature ejaculation.

Studies have found that pelvic floor rehabilitation is a promising and cost-effective treatment for this complex condition.

 

Improvement in premature ejaculation

 

Therapeutic Advances in Urology published a peer-reviewed paper focused on the benefits of pelvic floor rehabilitation in men with lifelong premature ejaculation. 

More than 80 percent of study participants gained better control of the ejaculatory reflex with significantly improved ejaculation time, showing that pelvic floor exercises are an effective alternative to the treatment of premature ejaculation, which is typically treated with SSRIs (oral antidepressant medications).

 

More staying power and energy

 

Kegel exercises for men are a workout for muscles that support the penis as training for the pelvic floor muscles which are strengthened by contracting and relaxing specific muscles on demand. During sex, the increased ability to control these muscles provides more staying power and energy.

There are specific techniques for doing Kegel exercises.

Locating the pelvic floor muscles to exercise is the first step, the Mayo clinic has a good diagram on its website that provides clear direction.  Then follow 4 simple steps:

1. Sit or lie down after you empty your bladder or when you are certain your bladder is empty.
2. Consciously squeeze or tighten your pelvic floor muscles. Hold in a tightened state for 8-10 seconds.
3. Breath out and release the muscle for 8-10 seconds.
4. Repeat the above 3 steps 10 times. Conduct these training sessions three times per day.

 

Penis Exercises Enlarge Your Penis

 

Advertisements for devices, supplements, and exercises that claim to enlarge your penis should be viewed with considerable skepticism.  There is more myth than fact in unproven penis enlargement claims. Surgical procedures are the only way to enlarge your penis. Only one surgical procedure for male enhancement has valid FDA acceptance of medical claims.

Penuma is the first FDA cleared procedure for penile enlargement or enhancement.  It is a surgical implant designed to provide men with an additional 2.5 inches in length and girth.

Interestingly, Augusta Medical Systems routinely receives reports from men who claim regular use of a Soma Therapy ED product enlarges the penis.  It is important to note that Augusta Medical Systems does believe this to be true and does not make these claims. We do not promote unsubstantiated hearsay.  User comments have no medical basis, FDA claim, or proven validity.

However, it is believed that erectile dysfunction can be a progressive condition. Clinical sources believe that without regular erections, the penis in its flaccid state (non-erect) state has very low levels of oxygen. Over time the lack of oxygen to the penis is harmful to the tissues that make up the organ.

Because the use of a vacuum erection device pulls oxygenated blood into the penis, repetitive use of a VED to create erections overtime allows the user to experience their fullest natural erection. This is due to regular full erections, not the device that creates the erections.

If regular full erections have not occurred in a number of years, the user may “perceive” their erections as larger or enhanced. In these cases, a return to full penile engorgement and erectile function using a VED is often mistaken by the man or couple using a vacuum erection device as penis enlargement.   

 

Sources say without regular erections; the penis can actually shrink

 

Supporting the belief that ED is chronic and progressive and that vacuum erection device users understandably “perceive” their erections as larger or enhanced after regular usage, sources claim erectile dysfunction leads to penis shrinkage.

The Journal of Sexual Medicine published a 2014 study citing evidence that chronic lack of erections equals a lack of oxygen in penile tissue. Researchers believe lack of oxygen results in hardening and scaring of penile tissue and consequently a decrease in stretched penile length or a decline in penile size. 

Organic (caused by an underlying medical disorder) erectile dysfunction is characterized by a lack of nocturnal erections which are thought to decrease the size of the penis.

To learn more about nature’s way of keeping penile tissues healthy read “ Nocturnal Erections and Penile Health.”

 

Penis Exercises Help the Penile Rehabilitation Process

 

The Sexual Medicine Society  describes penile rehabilitation in the following way:

• Exercises that can help men recover erectile function by inducing erections to exercise the penis.

Dr. Run Wang published an article In the 2017 Journal of Sexual Medicine titled “Vacuum Erection Device for Rehabilitation After Radical Prostatectomy” in which he made many interesting observations around the use of a penis pump for penile exercise.

In terms of penis exercise used for rehabilitation which focuses on the penis not considering pelvic floor muscles, Dr. Wang states in his article: “creating multiple erections is a unique advantage of VED therapy that other current rehabilitation methods cannot achieve.”

his implies that while oral medications, injections or other medical interventions create erections that bring blood flow to the penis, no other treatment has the therapeutic benefit or advantage of a vacuum erection device when it is used to create multiple erections in one training session.

Dr. Wang further states: “clear and significant benefits were demonstrated for the Vacuum Erection Device in preserving penile size” and in additional statements “These findings suggested that the antihypoxic, antiapoptic, antifibrotic mechanisms were related to VED therapy.”

Based on these findings it is suggested that Vacuum Erection Device therapy targets the right physiological disorder associated with penile shrinkage and ED after radical prostatectomy.

Dr. Wang’s article further states “The International Consultation on Sexual Medicine recommends that the Vacuum Erection Device be used early in the postoperative setting to maintain penile length after prostatectomy.”

 

Learn more about “Penis Exercise.”

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Benefits of Using a Penis Pump Before and After Prostate Surgery

 

What Is a Radical Prostatectomy?

 

Radical prostatectomy (prostate surgery to remove the prostate gland) is most often done to treat localized prostate cancer. Less often, a simple prostatectomy is done to relieve symptoms associated with BPH (benign enlargement of the prostate gland). Radical prostatectomy involves removing the entire prostate as well as some of the surrounding tissue, including nerves and lymph nodes.

One of the side effects of prostate surgery is erectile dysfunction. In fact, several studies cite an 85% occurrence rate, which means about up to 9 out of 10 men who undergo this procedure end up with some degree of impotence. Penile rehabilitation refers to therapies that can help preserve penile tissue and restore erectile function in men who have undergone prostate removal.

A vacuum erection device or penis pump is an effective intervention to improve penis health in men with impaired erectile function after surgery. What are the benefits of using a penis pump before and after prostate surgery? Let’s find out.

 

Why does prostate surgery cause erectile dysfunction?

 

In men with prostate cancer that has not spread outside the gland itself, surgery is often the recommended treatment. Radical prostatectomy involves removing the entire gland along with the seminal vesicles and some surrounding tissue. There are several types of prostate surgery, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures.

In the retropubic approach, the surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen, from the navel to the pubic area. The prostate is carefully separated from surrounding nerves and blood vessels before it is removed along with adjoining tissue. In the perineal approach, an incision is made between the anus and the scrotum.

This is a shorter operation and is preferred when lymph nodes do not need to be removed. However, the perineal approach is associated with a higher incidence of post-surgery erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common side effects of prostate surgery. Nerves in the penis play a critical role in the development of erections. Two bundles of nerves are present on either side of the prostate gland. Although surgeons take great care to avoid cutting these nerves during the procedure, some degree of damage does occur. This is the reason that erection problems are common after prostate removal even with a nerve-sparing approach.

Not everyone suffers from loss of spontaneous erections after prostatectomy. The ability to have an erection after prostate surgery depends on a number of factors, including:

• Age
• Erectile function before the operation
• The degree of nerve injury during the procedure
• Type of surgery
• Experience of the surgeon

Older men are more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction following prostate removal due to age-related effects. A man’s erectile function before surgery also plays a role, and men with good penis health are more likely to retain erectile ability post-procedure. The type of procedure performed is also important.

Surgeons do their best to preserve the nerves during the surgery, but as noted, the perineal approach is associated with a higher rate of ED. Erection problems are equally common following a laparoscopic approach versus an open approach. However, studies show that robotic-assisted prostatectomy has better erectile function recovery rates.

 

Should I use a penis pump to help improve penile health before prostate surgery?

 

A penis pump use is like exercise for the penis. Just like exercising the body is good for overall general health, regular use of a penis pump is good preparation for prostate surgery. Erections occur when an immense amount of blood flows into the penis and engorges it. When the penis remains flaccid for long periods of time, penile tissue is deprived of oxygen-rich blood.

This leads to a loss of flexibility and scar tissue formation in the corpora cavernosa (the smooth muscles that relax and allow blood to flow into the penis during erections). The resultant inability of the penis to expand leads to erectile dysfunction Simply put, erectile function is a use-it-or-lose-it deal. Using a penis pump before prostate removal can improve penis health.

 

Why is it recommended to start using the vacuum device before the prostate surgery?

 

A penis pump or vacuum erection device (VED) consists of an acrylic cylinder that is placed around the penis. When air is pumped out of the cylinder, the vacuum that is created causes blood to flow into the penis, making it rigid and erect. Using a vacuum erection device before prostate surgery, therefore, improves blood circulation, which in turn helps to maintain a healthy penis.

Healthy tissue recovers faster from surgery. A common side effect of prostate removal is penile shrinkage in terms of both length and circumference. Penis pumps help maintain preoperative penis size and minimize the effect of shrinkage following surgery.

 

How do penis pumps help with penile rehabilitation after prostate surgery?

 

The nerves in the penis that trigger erections may be damaged during the procedure to remove the prostate. The neuropraxia (temporary loss in nerve function) takes time to recover. This means that the ability to have spontaneous erections after surgery often returns slowly. In fact, it can take several months to years to regain sexual function after prostate cancer. During this time, men are unable to experience even nighttime erections.

Rather than waiting for erectile function to return on its own, doctors feel that regaining erectile function after prostate surgery can be helped along by a penile rehabilitation program. Penile rehabilitation is a type of physical therapy for the penis. Following prostate removal, a penis pump helps recover erectile function by regularly exercising the penis.

This keeps the penile tissue healthy and allows the nerves in the penis to regenerate so that eventually satisfactory erections can occur. Studies show that penis pumps are a safe, well-tolerated, and effective method of penile rehabilitation.

A penis pump creates negative pressure and increases blood flow to the penis. Engorgement of the penis with blood is necessary for strong and long-lasting erections. In addition, the blood flowing into the penis carries nutrients that are essential for a healthy penis. By mechanically pumping blood into the penis, a VED helps preserve the tissue and minimize damage while allowing the nerves time to heal.

 

How long after the surgery may I start using the penis pump for rehabilitation exercises?

 

Most men are advised to begin using a vacuum constriction device within two months of nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy. A survey of more than 600 urologists from the American Urological Association showed that the overwhelming majority (97%) of physicians start rehab within four months of prostate surgery.

Authors Dalkin BL and Christopher BA published a clinical study in the International Journal of Impotence Research.  In an article titled Preservation of penile length after radical prostatectomy: early intervention with a vacuum erection device. Sep-Oct;19(5):501-4. Epub 2007 Jul 26. In this article, they describe when the participants of the study used a penis pump for penile rehabilitation.  Daily use of a vacuum erection device was begun the day after catheter removal and continued for 90 days.  It is recommended to work with your physician to determine when to start using the penis pump for rehabilitation exercises. 

 

How do the results impact penile tissue?

 

Fibrotic changes (scarring) lead to shortening and decrease in girth of the penis following surgery. Venous leakage from damaged tissues is also thought to play a role in the development of erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery. Penile rehabilitation with a penis pump helps maintain penile length and girth. It also helps with nerve recovery and overall tissue health for quicker recovery.

The authors of a 2016 clinical study determined that the average loss of penile length (penile shortening) after radical prostatectomy was 1.87 cm and 1.82 cm respectively. They further determined that men who use a vacuum erection device that no significant changes in penile length (penile shortening) were observed in men using a vacuum erection device after surgery.

 

How long does it take to see results?

 

Results are not immediate and it can take several months to notice a difference. One study found that 17 percent of men had a return of natural erections after using a VED device for nine months. Doctors typically recommend the use of a penis pump for at least 12-18 months after prostate surgery for penile rehabilitation.

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What Should You Do If ED Drugs Don’t Work?

Since it was first approved by the FDA for treatment of erectile dysfunction ED in 1998 Viagra, also known as the little blue pill, and other oral medications have offered hope to millions of men and brought in billions of dollars in revenue for the pharmaceutical companies that manufacture them. However, oral ED medications do not improve erectile function in all men. There are a number of reasons why ED drugs don’t work. Read on to learn about how to make ED drugs work better and alternative treatments for ED when medications like Viagra are ineffective. What should you do if ED drugs don’t work?

 

Realistic Expectations from ED Drugs

 

Viagra and other pills for erectile dysfunction are not miracle cures. Before concluding that ED drugs don’t work, it’s important to ensure you have realistic expectations from these drugs. Here’s what to expect from oral medications for erectile dysfunction:

• ED drugs don’t work without arousal. The medication restores and improves blood flow to the penis, but sexual stimulation and foreplay are still required for an erection to occur.

 

• ED drugs don’t work immediately. In most men, it takes at least 30 minutes for Viagra and Levitra to become effective. The effects typically last for 4 hours after taking the pill. Some medications like Cialis are most effective 2-3 hours after taking the pill.

 

• ED drugs may not work the first time they are used. If a medication doesn’t work even after a few attempts, the doctor may need to prescribe a higher dose or a different ED drug. Studies show 100 mg Viagra is effective in many men who fail to respond to the 50 mg dose.

 

• ED drugs may not work if you have certain underlying medical conditions. Frequently men who have diabetes, prostate cancer, or are taking medications for hypertension do not achieve positive results with ED drugs.

 

How to Take ED Drugs: The Correct Approach

 

Psychological factors can sometimes play a role in erectile dysfunction. However, underlying causes are usually medical in nature. Beyond medical factors, there are other considerations which can make for a positive sexual health experience using oral medications to treat erectile dysfunction.

Food: Some ED drugs like sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Spedra) are not as effective if they are taken with food. To ensure that these drugs work, it is necessary to wait at least 2 hours after a meal before taking the medication. In addition, fatty foods and sour fruits like grapefruit can make these medications less effective. The only exception to this is Cialis (tadalafil) which can be taken with food.

Alcohol: It’s a good idea to avoid alcohol when taking ED drugs. Drinking can worsen some of the side effects of the medication, such as headaches, dizziness, and flushed skin. Alcohol is also known to worsen erectile dysfunction, counteracting the benefits of the medication and leading to the belief that ED drugs don’t work.

Timing: Men with erectile dysfunction need a little more planning before sex. The best way to take Viagra is 30-60 minutes before sex, although it can be taken up to 4 hours prior. Studies show that erections last longer when Viagra is taken two hours before sex compared to four hours. Cialis should be taken a couple of hours before anticipated sexual activity and its effects can last up to 36 hours.

Contraindications: Never mix ED drugs with nitrates which are used to treat chest pain and other heart conditions as this can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure. In addition, ED drugs may interact with a number of medications. Talk to your doctor about taking Viagra while on other medications such as those used to treat high blood pressure, antifungals, blood thinners, and anti-seizure medicines.

 

Alternative Treatments When Oral ED Drugs Don’t Work

 

Sometimes erectile dysfunction medications do not work even if they are taken as directed. In fact, these drugs are ineffective in for large numbers of men with ED. One thing to consider if ED drugs don’t work is instituting lifestyle modifications including diet and exercise. A review of current medications might prove useful because some medications can interfere with oral ED treatments. Alternative treatments for ED when oral medications don’t work include:

 

Vacuum devices: The simplest non-medication treatment for ED is a penis pump or vacuum erection device (VED). This device pulls blood flow into the penis by creating a vacuum. A ring at the base of the penis maintains the erection for up to 30 minutes. Penis pumps are also known to promote penile health and improve erections in men who have undergone surgery for prostate cancer.

Vacuum devices (penis pumps) are increasingly being used along with other treatments to improve the results of oral medications, injections, and surgical implants pre-operation.

Learn more by reading a “Guide to Penis Pumps.”

Injections: If ED medications are ineffective, injection of a drug called alprostadil directly into the penis may help, although this is frequently associated with problems such as pain, bleeding, scarring, low blood pressure, and prolonged erections. 

Compounding pharmacies routinely prepare bi-mix and tri-mix injectables for erectile dysfunction. This refers to either two or three chemicals. Bi-mix is often a reference to papaverine and phentolamine, while tri-mix adds prostaglandin also known as alprostadil.

 

Transurethral pellets: Muse is a type of alprostadil that is formed into a medicated pellet.  It is inserted into the urethra via a specially designed applicator.  The onset of effect is within 5–10 minutes after administration. The duration of effect is approximately 30–60 minutes. However, the actual duration will vary from patient to patient.

 

Surgical Implants: A penile prosthesis is surgically implanted in the penis to treat ED. The basic models are either malleable (bendable) or inflatable, inflatable or hydraulic designs are popular because they are easy to conceal. Costs can range from $ 10,000 – $ 30,000.  In general surgical implants are considered the treatment of last resort due to the invasiveness of the procedure and cost.

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Tips for stronger erections

Erections are the result of a complex interplay within the body. External factors such as emotions are also involved. Psychosexual arousal, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, nitric oxide, and hormone levels all play a role. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to obtain erections sufficiently strong for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition. Especially among men that are suffering from an underlying medical disorder. Some of the most common medical disorders associated with ED are diabetes, heart disease, and prostate cancer.

How can you get stronger erections? What manageable factors impact erectile function? Is it possible to treat ED without erectile dysfunction medications? Here are some lifestyle changes and tips for stronger erections.

 

Foods that help erections

 

An unhealthy diet leads to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Diet can also affect your performance in the bedroom. Research shows that eating patterns that clog the blood vessels and cause heart attacks also affect arteries in the penis.

Healthy erections require a vast inflow of blood into the penis. The first tip to make your erection stronger is to eat a heart-healthy diet and consume red meat in moderation. This should include lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and a limited amount of saturated fats, processed foods, and fried snacks.

A Mediterranean diet is rich in olive oil, nuts, fish, and red wine. According to clinical studies, the Mediterranean diet is associated with a relatively lower incidence of erectile dysfunction. Eating healthy also helps maintain a healthy weight. Too much body fat is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes can lead to nerve damage in the penis and problems with erections. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can be potentially avoided or managed with healthy dietary choices. Less body fat through a healthy diet can make for stronger erections.

 

Sex and Lifestyle

 

Foods are not the only things we consume that can impact the quality of erections. Lifestyle choices also can affect our sex life. The toxins in cigarette smoke can damage blood vessels carrying blood throughout the body. This includes the penis.

Heavy alcohol consumption can affect erectile function. It has the potential to cause nerve injury. Alcohol can also interfere with male sex hormones, this can lead to erectile dysfunction or weak erections. For harder, stronger erections, stop smoking and drink alcohol in moderation. 

 

Exercise for Strong Erections

 

There is a direct correlation between a sedentary lifestyle and erectile dysfunction. Men who exercise regularly are less likely to suffer from erection problems and are likely to experience an improved sex drive. You can reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction by making small changes. Start by parking at the far end of parking lots, taking the stairs, and walking instead of taking a taxi.

An important tip on making erections stronger is doing the right kind of exercise. Aerobic exercise such as running and swimming helps prevent ED. Kegel exercises (repeated contraction and relaxation of pelvic muscles) may help some men regain normal erectile function. 

 

Can stress cause erectile dysfunction?

 

Stress causing erectile dysfunction has been the focus of clinical studies. Nerves play a critical role in triggering erections. Stress affects the nervous system and increases the level of cortisol and adrenaline hormones in the body.

This can result in low libido and might create a contraction of the penile arteries, possibly leading to problems with maintaining an erect penis. Managing emotions, easing tension, and dealing with relationship issues may all help with making erections stronger. Psychogenic impotence is not uncommon and is often misunderstood.

 

Can lack of sleep cause erectile dysfunction?

 

A good night’s sleep is important to make erections stronger. Men without organic ED have 3-5 nocturnal erections every night. Night time erections work like an exercise regimen for the penis.

This naturally keeps blood flow, muscle tissue, and nerves within the penis in good working condition. Nocturnal erections are thought to occur during R.E.M sleep. R.E.M sleep usually happens 90 minutes after you fall asleep.

Without adequate sleep, nocturnal erections can be disrupted. In addition, sleep deprivation is known to cause a dip in testosterone levels and libido. Good sleep is helpful for strong erections.

For more information, check out “Nocturnal Erections and Penile Health.”

 

Penis Exercise

 

Exercises for the penis is often referred to as penile rehabilitation by Urologist in the medical community. There are accounts of penis exercise that focus on penis enlargement or penis exercises for permanent growth. For this reason, some clarification is necessary. 

After reading popular websites, one can’t help but ask, does penis enlargement exercise lead to permanent growth of the penis? As it stands, men looking for permanent penis growth exercises are going to be disappointed. No non-surgical options have been proven effective to create a permanent increase of girth or length of the penis.

However, there is good evidence that a penis pump used for exercise can have positive benefits for penile health. Recent studies on penile rehabilitation following radical prostatectomy demonstrate the therapeutic benefit of a vacuum erection device. Many physicians believe that this research applies to all men suffering from ED who do not achieve nocturnal erections.

Pulling blood flow into penile tissues using a vacuum erection device is like exercise. The process stretches tissues in a manner similar to any other form of physical exercise that builds strength. Oxygenation of tissues that are otherwise in a non-erect (flaccid) state prevents penile atrophy, programmed cell death, and penile shortening. 

 

What is penis exercise?

 

Penis exercise using a vacuum erection device for therapy is nothing more than the process of creating and releasing multiple erections. Using a penis pump for penis exercise is thought to mimic the benefits of nocturnal erections in men.

Men suffering from organic ED often don’t achieve nocturnal erections naturally. The simple process of creating and releasing multiple erections is therapeutic. A single exercise session with a penis pump creates full penile rigidity. This is a unique attribute of a vacuum erection device (also known as a penis pump).

 

For more information, check out “ How to use a penis pump for penis exercise.”

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How to get an Erection on Command with a Penis Pump

The physiology of erectile function is not simple. It involves nitric oxide pathways. Nerves and hemodynamics (dynamics of blood flowing) must work together to produce an erection. If you’re a man with normal erectile function, you may wonder how to get an erection on command. The best time for sexual intercourse can occur without a plan or schedule. A man under 30 without ED is not always able to get an erection on command. If you have sexual health challenges or experience erectile dysfunction, it is a more difficult question. How do you achieve an erection on command?

Is timing important when choosing a sexual health aid? What is the quickest way to increase penile blood flow? How do you achieve a harder erection in the least amount of time? Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are popular. Do they work on command or quickly?

Sex Pills for men

Oral medications are a very common treatment for ED. The best sex pills for men are prescription. Prescription medications for sexual health often impact nitric oxide synthesis. As a result of the medical findings around nitric oxide, l-arginine is found in many over the counter supplements.

Usually, over the counter medications are unregulated by the FDA. Many are not safe to use. Others only work for men without erectile dysfunction if they work at all. These are best described as performance enhancement supplements.

Depending on your medical condition, prescription oral ED medications may not work. Half of the prescriptions for oral ED medications are not refilled. This may speak to effectiveness. If you are a man who can take a prescription pill for ED that is great. Even then it usually takes 30 to 60 minutes after taking the medication to produce results. So if you want to create an erection on command, a pill might not do the trick.

Harder Erections

One of the common complaints among viagra users is the low quality of erection produced. Most men must wait 30 minutes to an hour after taking the pill for results. Many men then only experience a semi-erect penis. This is one of the advantages to correct use of a medical grade penis pump. Used properly you can achieve an erection that is your fullest natural erection on command.

How to use a penis pump for erections on command

With a minimum amount of practice, you can create an erection using a penis pump. It only takes 2-3 minutes. As you ingest Viagra and nitric oxide causes smooth muscle tissues in the penis to relax you could have easily created an erection with a penis pump. By the time the drug begins to take effect, you are having sex with a penis pump. The process involves 3 simple steps:

 

 

Apply the system over the penis.

 

 

 

 

 

Activate the pumping mechanism. This will draw blood into the penis, causing an erection.

 

 

 

 

 

Once the penis is fully engorged, the tension ring is placed at the base of the penis, maintaining the erection.

 

 

 

 

 

Penis Exercise

As you learn the process of how to get an erection on demand, penis exercise is possible. Penis exercise is a process prescribed by sexual health physicians. Following prostate surgery, men often lose nighttime erections. These are called nocturnal erections. Nocturnal erections occur 3-5 times per night. They are considered to be associated with penile health.

Creating erections draws oxygen-rich blood flow into penile tissues. The process of blood flowing into a non-erect penis stretches tissues. This prevents tissue atrophy and maintains penile length. You can use a penis pump to mimic nocturnal erections. To use a penis pump for penile health do the following:

1. Apply the system over the penis.
2. Activate the pumping mechanism. This will draw blood into the penis, causing an erection.
3. Release the erection in the cylinder and perform the first and second steps again.

Repeat penis exercises using a penis pump 3-5 times per week. Each session should last for approximately 20-30 minutes. You don’t have to be a prostate cancer survivor to lose nighttime erections. Diabetes and hypertension medications often cause a loss of nocturnal erections. Other medical conditions are associated with the loss of nocturnal erections. Even severe lack of sleep can be associated with this loss.

Repetitive erections keep the penis healthy. This can improve your erections. Harder erections can then become more likely.

Can a penis pump assist with premature ejaculation?

What is premature ejaculation? This is when men are not able to keep an erection without releasing semen. After semen is released the erection is lost. Erectile dysfunction is defined as the lack of ability to achieve an erection and maintain it. Premature ejaculation prevents men from being able to maintain an erection.

When you use a penis pump, a penis ring is placed on the base of the penis. This is what maintains an erection after it is created. When you learn how to use a penis ring you learn how to maintain an erection. You can keep an erection up to 30 minutes with a penis ring in place. In some men, this is a confidence booster. In other men, this is a way to maintain an erection to please a sexual partner.

Penis Pump Results

Over 90% of men who suffer from erectile dysfunction can achieve an erection with a medical grade penis pump. For best results, you can buy directly from the manufacturer. Augusta Medical Systems is the premier manufacturer of American made vacuum erection devices. No prescription is required. Regardless of non-prescription status, it is important to discuss sexual health issues with your physician. Erectile dysfunction can be the first symptom of an undiagnosed medical condition.

The post How to get an Erection on Command with a Penis Pump appeared first on Augusta Medical Systems.

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How to increase blood flow to the penis

Blood flow to the penis is a critical component of healthy erections. Whether the penis is flaccid or erect depends on the muscle tone of the organ. Men achieve an erection when sexual arousal gives rise to nerve impulses that tell the muscles in the penis to relax. The chemical that causes the muscles to relax is called nitric oxide. Once the muscles relax, it allows blood to flow into the penis, fill the open spaces, expand it, and make it stiff. Therefore, penis blood flow is the natural process by which erections occur. How to increase blood flow to the penis? Do diet and vitamins help? Are there medications and mechanical devices available?

For more information, check out our “Guide to Erectile Dysfunction“.

 

How to increase blood flow to the penis?

 

Penis circulation plays an important role in erections. During an erection, the arteries that carry blood into the organ expand to increase blood flow to the penis. In the erect state, the penis contains 8 times as much blood as the flaccid state. The blood fills the corpus cavernosa (two tubes of spongy tissue) in the penis, causing it to swell and enlarge. At the same time, the veins that carry blood away from the organ become narrow, trapping the blood and thereby maintaining the erection. Following ejaculation or when sexual arousal is no longer present, the veins expand and allow the blood to drain out from the penis, returning it to the normal soft state.

It is not surprising that many treatments for erectile dysfunction focus act by improving penis blood flow. Some medications that help men achieve strong erections work by causing the muscles to relax, which boosts blood flow to the penis. In addition, there are natural ways to improve penis circulation and make erections easier and stronger. Certain foods, vitamins, and exercise are believed to dilate blood vessels and stimulate the flow of blood into the penis. For men struggling with erectile dysfunction, perhaps the most important question that needs to be answered is: How to improve blood flow to the penis?

Every device, prescription medication, or homeopathic treatment for erectile dysfunction should attempt to answer one question. How to increase blood flow to the penis when the body isn’t functioning as it should?  Supplements and different types of foods make various claims about properties they possess for improving blood flow. 

 

Increasing blood flow to the penis naturally

 

Treating erectile dysfunction with medications isn’t the only option available to men. There are a number of ways to naturally boost penis circulation and maintain male sexual health:

 

Foods:

• Coffee: Studies show that men who drink 2-3 cups of coffee daily are less likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction compared to men who drink little to no coffee. It is believed caffeine improves blood flow to the penis by relaxing the muscles and arteries, thereby leading to stronger erections.
• Oats: Wild oats are believed to be aphrodisiacs. Oatmeal contains the amino acid L-arginine that improves the effect of nitric oxide, the chemical that reduces the stiffness of blood vessels in the penis and allows blood to flow into it.
• Dark Chocolate: Flavanols are known to lower blood pressure and increase blood flow. Men who habitually consume flavonoid-rich foods such as chocolate have been found to have a reduced incidence of erectile dysfunction.

 

Exercise:

• Aerobic Exercise: Diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure are all conditions that affect blood flow and can result in erectile dysfunction. Moderate aerobic exercise for 30-40 minutes three to four times a week can improve cardiovascular health and prevent or improve ED.
• Kegel Exercises: Pelvic floor exercises can help many men with erectile dysfunction regain normal sexual function by strengthening the muscles that allow the penis to engorge with blood during an erection.

 

Hydration:

• Dehydration can reduce blood volume as well as lead to a constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels, thereby decreasing penis blood flow.
• Mild dehydration is believed to cause anxiety and impaired mood in men. A man’s mental state has a profound effect on sexual drive. Therefore, mood changes due to dehydration can potentially cause erectile dysfunction.

 

Alcohol and Smoking:

• Alcohol drinkers are more likely to suffer from erectile problems compared to men who never drink.
• Cigarette smoking can damage blood vessels and result in poor blood flow to the penis. Studies have found that stopping cigarette use can improve sexual health in a considerable number of smokers.

 

Stress Management:

• Constant stress is associated with damage to blood vessels and this can potentially affect penis circulation.
• Anxiety can interrupt the messages from the brain that allow extra blood to flow into to the penis during an erection.

 

Increasing blood flow to the penis with penis pumps

 

A penis pump is a mechanical device that helps a man obtain and maintain an erection that is sufficiently strong for sexual intercourse. Also known as a vacuum erectile device, it works by using negative pressure to expand the corpus cavernosa and increase blood flow to the penis. It consists of a plastic tube that encloses the penis, a manual or battery-powered pump, and a constriction band that fits at the base of the erect penis to prevent it from collapsing.

Penis pumps are non-invasive and do not involve any injection or insertion. They are effective and less risky than some other treatments with fewer side effects. They can be used in along with other treatments, such as penile implants and medications, and combination treatment works well for some men.

The use of a vacuum pump can help rehabilitate damaged penile tissues. The increase in penis blood flow during pump use is associated with better nutrition and oxygenation of the corpus cavernosa, the tubes that engorge with blood during an erection. In men who have undergone prostate surgery, the use of vacuum erectile devices has been shown to help improve penis circulation, preserve penis length, regain erectile function, and improve sexual health.

For more information, check out our “Guide to Penis Pumps“.

 

Increasing blood flow to the penis with medication

 

An estimated 30 million men in the United States and 150 million men worldwide suffer from erectile dysfunction. A number of medications are available to men who are not able to get or keep an erection that’s hard enough for sex. Treatment with these drugs can solve the problem but may be associated with side effects. All the drugs used to treat ED work by stimulating blood flow to the penis.

 

Vasodilators: These drugs produce erections by relaxing the muscles, expanding the blood vessels, and allowing the penis to fill with blood. They can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. A commonly prescribed vasodilator, alprostadil, is injected directly into the base of the penis. It can also be inserted into the urethra in the form of a pellet. It is available under the brand names Caverjet, Edex, and MUSE.

Advantages of Vasodilators:

• They work directly by dilating blood vessels and are therefore effective in men with damaged nerves.
• Regular use may re-establish penis blood flow and promote return of normal erections.

Disadvantages of Vasodilators:

• Patients must learn the proper technique for administration.
• Discomfort, scarring, and priapism (rare) can occur from the injections.
• Urethral burning may be a side effect of the MUSE pellet delivery system.

 

Sildenafil: This medication, available widely as Viagra, is an effective treatment for men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. It works by enhancing the effect of nitric oxide, the chemical that relaxes the muscles and increases blood flow to the penis. Sildenafil needs to be taken one hour before planned sexual activity. It does not work automatically. An erection only occurs if sexual arousal causes the release of nitric oxide.

Advantages of Viagra:

• Effective for mild to moderate ED.
• Convenient (does not require injection or insertion).

Disadvantages of Viagra:

• Lack of spontaneity due to short time of action.
• Food in stomach can lower the effectiveness of the drug.
• Cannot be used with alcohol.
• Side effects such as flushing, headache, upset stomach, backache, visual changes, nasal congestion, nausea, dizziness, rash.
• Rare reports of heart attack and stroke.

 

 

To check out the various vacuum therapy products available at Augusta Medical Systems visit our online store.  Or contact customer support at Augusta Medical Systems with questions at 800-827-8382.

 

 

 

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