Men's Health
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Vacuum Constriction Devices (commonly known as vacuum pump or penis pump)
A vacuum constriction device (VCD) is a non-invasive treatment for erectile dysfunction. It can be used alone or together with other treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as pelvic floor exercises (kegel) or oral medication (PDE5 inhibitors).
A VCD helps a man achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. But it takes practice and correct use.
Who should consider using a VCD (Vacuum Constriction Devices )?
VCD are most commonly used to treat medical causes of erectile dysfunction. These include:
- Diabetes
- After surgery (or radiation) for prostate or colon cancer
- Psychological issues such as anxiety-based erectile dysfunction
- Damage to nerves that control the erection reflex
How Well Do VCD work?
Studies suggest that about 50%-80% of men are satisfied with the results of VCD.
A VCD might be a good alternative if oral medication (PDE5 inhibitors) causes side effects, does not work sufficiently or medication not suitable.
It may also be a good choice if you do not want to take oral medication.
How does a VCD work?
Using a vacuum constriction device in four simple steps:
- Place the VCD over the penis
- Pump the air out of the cylinder so that a vacuum is created (pumped by hand or run on batteries). The vacuum draws blood into the shaft of the penis and causes it to swell and become erect
- Once you have an erection, slip an elastic tension ring around the base of your penis. This helps you maintain the erection by trapping blood inside the penis
- Remove the pump. The elastic tension ring can be safely left on the penis (for up to 30 minutes) to allow for successful sexual intercourse
Note: Do not leave the tension ring on the penis for more than 30 minutes. Cutting off the blood flow for too long might injure your penis.
Who should not use a VCD?
- If you take blood-thinning medicines, such as aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel
- If you have Peyronie’s disease
- If you have a significant congenital bleeding disorder such as sickle cell anaemia, some forms of leukemia, and other blood conditions.
- If you have priapism (a prolonged, sometime painful erection lasting 4 hours or more)
Choosing a VED
You can buy VED from online stores, in magazines and sex ads. It is recommended to consult a doctor before you buy one to ensure safety and suitability. The doctor might suggest or recommend a specific model (medical grade product).