Vacuum Erection Devices: A Comprehensive Review
For men who suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED), sex can be a frustrating experience. ED affects millions of men worldwide and can cause anxiety, stress, and even depression. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for ED, including vacuum erection devices (VEDs).
VEDs have been around for almost a century and are known by many names such as penis pumps or vacuum pumps. They work by creating negative pressure around the penis to increase blood flow into it, causing an erection.
In this article, we will review the effectiveness of VEDs in treating ED and how they compare to other treatments like medication or surgery.
How Do Vacuum Erection Devices Work?
There are two main types of VEDs – manual and battery-powered. Manual devices require the user to pump air out of the cylinder with their hand while battery-powered ones use an electric motor to create suction.
To use a VED, you first need to apply lubricant to your penis before inserting it into the cylinder. Once inside, you start pumping until you achieve an erection. The device usually comes with constriction rings that fit over the base of your erect penis to maintain the erection after removing the vacuum.
The Pros and Cons of Using Vacuum Erection Devices
Pros:
1) Non-invasive – Unlike surgery or injections which involve invasive procedures on your body parts; using a VED is non-invasive.
2) No side effects – Medications used for ED treatment come with some side effects such as headaches, nausea or dizziness but using VED has no harmful side effects attached.
3) Cost-effective – VED’s cost ranges between $50-$300 which is relatively cheaper than other treatments like surgery or medications that could cost thousands of dollars per year depending on insurance coverage.
Cons:
1) Time-consuming – It takes time to set up a vacuum device before intercourse unlike popping pills that only take a few seconds.
2) Initial discomfort – The first time you use a VED you may feel some discomfort, but this usually goes away after the second or third use.
3) Risk of injury – If not used correctly, there is a risk of injury to the penis such as bruising, numbness or cold sensation.
Effectiveness of Vacuum Erection Devices
Several studies have shown that VEDs are effective in treating ED. According to one study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 80% of men who used VEDs reported improvement in their erections. Another study conducted by the British Society for Sexual Medicine found that 68% of men who used VEDs were able to achieve satisfactory erections for sexual intercourse.
VED’s efficacy also depends on factors like age and underlying causes of ED. For instance, younger men with psychological issues respond better than older men whose ED is caused by physical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
How Vacuum Erection Devices Compare To Other Treatments
Medication:
Phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE5i), commonly known as oral medications are often prescribed for ED treatment. These drugs include Viagra (Sildenafil), Cialis (Tadalafil) and Levitra (Vardenafil). While medications work quickly when taken before sex, they don’t address the root cause of ED like vacuum devices do. Also medication might not be suitable for all patients especially those taking nitrate-containing drugs because it could lead to life-threatening hypotension.
Surgery:
Penile implant surgery is another option available for treating severe cases where other treatments fail. This procedure involves surgically placing an inflatable device into the penis that allows you to control when and how long your erection lasts. However surgery comes with risks such as infection or mechanical failure which require further interventions.
Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction can be frustrating and embarrassing for many men but thanks to advancements in medical technology, there are now many treatment options available. Vacuum erection devices are a safe and effective option for treating ED with minimal side effects compared to other treatments.
If you’re considering using a VED, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor first to ensure that it’s the right choice for you. With proper use and guidance from your healthcare provider, VEDs can help improve your sexual health and overall quality of life.