Vascular Reconstructive Surgery For ED

2014-09-09

It used to be that implants were the go-to procedure for erectile dysfunction. Today, for erectile dysfunction, nonsurgical options are always attempted before surgical ones. But when these options don’t work, there are a few surgical options to choose from. The first is surgical implants. These can be semi-rigid rods, inflatable implants or vascular reconstructive surgery for ED. With the rods, you always have an erection. It can be difficult to conceal. It can be painful and do damage to the skin. It may injure the erection bodies. And if the implantation is not successful, it can get in the way of other treatments. There is also the risk of infection. With inflatable implants the downsides are that they are expensive, they are the most likely method to fail, it can injure the erection bodies or alter them permanently, and it can also impede other treatments if it is not successful. For these reasons some patients opt for the third option, vascular reconstructive surgery for ED. This is reconstructing the blood vessels within the penis. The object is to increase blood flow in order to help a man create and sustain an erection.

Another way it is done is by blocking the veins in the penis. When blood can’t leave the penis, a man can create and sustain an erection. It’s important that no matter what type of surgery you go for, that you discuss your options in depth with your physician or urologist. Be sure to do some research on the internet or in your local library. Talk it over with your partner or loved one before you make your decision. Have a good grasp on the advantages and disadvantages of each one. What’s more, make sure your physician has a good reputation and has performed the surgery many times before undergoing it. The advantages to this type of surgery include not having any implant, having a natural look and a natural erection. If this type of surgery isn’t successful it won’t impede other types of treatment. One drawback is that not many men are good candidates for this type of surgery. You also must undergo extensive testing before the surgery can be performed. There aren’t many medical centers who have experience with this surgery. So you’ll have to do a lot of research and perhaps even travel to the nearest one in order to receive the best care. Though it can be effective, it only lasts for two years, or even less. The price tag is worrisome as well. There are other side effects including numbness, shortening of the penis, risk of infection, painful erections and a distortion of the penis. Talk to your doctor or urologist about this surgery if you are interested in it. See if you might be a good candidate.

Do Male Enhancements Work?

2014-09-04

There are lots of male enhancements out there from ointments to pills, devices to supplements. Some say they enhance libido, others bedroom proficiency and stamina, and still others claim to elongate the penis. Men are insecure about their size and sexual performance. But do male enhancements work? Some could be effective while others could be dangerous to your health. One system that some medical sources have given a nod to, though it hasn’t been tested extensively is the FastSize Extender. This acceptance by many in the medical community is actually a rare occurrence. Most male enhancement systems don’t work and there are those that are even hazardous. Medical experts believe that instead of turning to gimmicks in magazines why not discuss the issue with your doctor? Though it can initially feel embarrassing, your physician is there to help and will give you expert analysis and information. What’s more, sexual issues can sometimes be early warning signs to serious health issues.  So sharing this information with your physician can actually help stave off or mitigate a more serious problem. Erectile dysfunction for instance can be a warning sign for cardiovascular disease. But catching it early can not only reverse the problem, it could even save your life.

Besides the FastSize Extender, there is penis –lengthening surgery. This procedure however is controversial. The most common form which cuts the ligament supporting the penis is not recommended by The American Urological Association as it hasn’t been proven to be safe or effective. There is another surgery which injects fat cells into the penis in order to increase its girth. But this procedure isn’t backed by the AUA either. In fact many physicians think the risks outweigh the benefits. One study conducted in 2006 found that only 35% of men were satisfied with penis elongating surgery. Most only gained about half an inch. What physicians say is that these men have unrealistic expectations. They should seek counseling for this over-preoccupation with penis size. Though many herbal supplements are on the market today, most have not been tested by the FDA for safety or effectiveness. In terms of size, it’s important to note that one study has shown 85% of women are satisfied with the size of their partner. Somehow this doesn’t jive with the 45% of men who want a bigger penis. Since most men are between 5.5 inches and 6.2 inches, the vast majority are average. What’s more, most of the nerves in the vagina are near the surface, so most men carry the right equipment to satisfy their partner. It is how they use that equipment that really matters.

How good is Sex for Men?

2014-09-01

Sexual health is a big concern for many men that is seldom spoken about. Prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction and contracting a STD are all problems that carry an embarrassing social stigma. Recent studies have found some very interesting information; sex, besides being extremely satisfying, is also good for prostate health.

Ejaculation has been proven to reduce stress and help a man’s immune system. This in turn assists in preventing cancer. Sex itself is good for cardiovascular health, which will not only help someone’s entire body but prevents erectile dysfunction. Lack of sexual activity can also be problematic for males. This can cause shortening of the penile tissue, and like previously mentioned, erectile dysfunction. On top of that, it can affect a man’s psychological health which may leak into a relationship, generating tension.

It is not suggested for anyone to have as much sex as time will allow. On the contrary, that puts you at a higher risk for contracting STDs or Prostatitis (a painful bacterial infection). Examiner.com states “men between the ages of 20 to 30 were at a higher risk of developing prostate problems when they experienced an ejaculation more than 20 times a month” while “Men who were over the age of 40 experienced none of the risk associated with prostate problems and masturbation, and simply were at a lower risk.”

There are many things that modern medical science must look into before any of this information can be completely validated. The study does show a correlation between prostate cancers and testosterone levels, though research is still debating the effect. What is known is that sexual activity is good for men’s health, but many things must be taken into consideration. First, use protection, especially if you’re having sex with a new partner and are unaware of their STD status. Limiting your partners will greatly reduce risks. Second, try to find a balance; too much sex can increase your chance to develop prostate cancer while too little is just as bad and may cause other complications. Sex is fun and something two people can enjoy together. Even masturbation can help you relax, or deter cancer. Just don’t overdo it. The key to a healthy life is a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

At What Age do Guys Have the Best Sex?

2014-08-28

It’s a question that’s been asked for a long time from a lot of different men. Some say it happens in the late teen years, others when a man in financially secure but right before he gets married. But what does science say? At what age do most guys have the best sex? According to recent research published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine men generally get it the most between the ages of 25 and 29. Men in their late 20’s on average have sex three times a week. After 50 years of age the amount of sex the average man receives drops off, averaging 1.22 times per week. But that doesn’t mean the best quality sex is behind you. In fact, your sex life can be robust up into the golden years. Urologist J. Stephen Jones, M.D., F.A.C.S., at the Cleveland Clinic says that the strength of a man’s relationship, physical and mental health are far larger determining factors than how many years a man has under his belt. A stale relationship, higher stress, and physical ailments are often what get in the way. To ensure a good sex life at any stage in life follow this advice.

The first thing to ensure is penile health, and that is generally the same as staying heart healthy. Exercise, eat right and limit alcohol intake. If you do smoke, quit. Also, maintain a healthy bodyweight. European Journal of Endocrinology published a study in 2011 that found the more abdominal fat a man carried, the higher his chances of developing erectile dysfunction (ED). According to Dr. Jones, “And if you want to ensure sexual dysfunction early in life, smoking is the way to do it.” Healthy sexual function is all about blood-flow and testosterone levels. Making sure you live a heart-healthy lifestyle will keep you fit but also keep your sexual health in tiptop shape. As a man ages his equipment changes. It is not something to freak out about. But he may not wake up with a morning erection like he used to. It may take longer to get erect. It may not be as hard as it used to be and it may take more time after orgasm to be ready to go again, what is called the refractory period. Instead of focusing on how things have changed, incorporate more foreplay and more digital and oral play before moving on to the main event. Make it not a means to an end but an enjoyable time to be had together. Another problem is lack of sexual confidence. Talk about this with your partner, your doctor, or if it is significant perhaps a therapist.

A No-Scalpel Vasectomy Coming Soon

Some couples decide they don’t want a family. Others have had enough children. Whatever your reason there are two solutions, either effectively using a form of birth control or one of you undergoing a sterilization operation. Implants, IUDs and the pill all have risks. Many men and some women don’t really like condoms. So an operation may be a good option. The issue now is someone has to undergo surgery. Usually in America it is the woman who does so. Sterilization procedures are done 2.5 times more to women than to men. But having the tubes tied is more risky and expensive. Luckily, today we have no-scalpel vasectomies, making the operation a whole lot easier.  Still, experts wonder if more men will opt for this surgery. Nathaniel M. Fried, PhD interviewed by WebMD said, “With the current incisionless approach, one still has to make a puncture in the skin,” Assistant professor of urology at Johns Hopkins University Nathaniel M. Fried, PhD tells WebMD “We are trying to take things one step further. We want to completely avoid bleeding and scrotal pain.” Though it’s not a procedure which is available yet, animal studies are currently being conducted. A company has also stepped in with a desire to see human studies in the near future.

A vasectomy performed today is when the vas deferens, a tube running from the testicles and into the semen, is snipped and either tied off or cauterized.This blocks the sperm from entering the semen. There are two tubes which must be snipped. Semen production and sexual functioning carry on as normal. The no-scalpel method Fried is developing uses a water balloon with chilled water running through it over the skin in order to cool it. Next a clamp is used to hold the vas deferens steady. Ultrasound waves are then applied to the sperm delivering tube. Fried says, “The idea is to heat up or cook the vas. It immediately cooks the tissue so that the vas closes. Then healing of the tissue creates scar tissue that further blocks the vas.” A regular vasectomy is usually a same-day procedure. There may be a little pain, bleeding, swelling and tenderness. But a man can take a weekend to recuperate and go back to work Monday. What’s more, he can take part in physical activity a week after surgery. For most men it’s the fear of the unknown, and the fear of pain that inhibits their desire for a vasectomy. But take the negative side effects out of the equation and a lot more guys may have this procedure done.

Technology Changing Masturbation

2014-08-25

It used to be that masturbation was thought to be a shameful practice. Today, it’s generally thought of as a normal, natural act when participated in privately. Scientists have found that the practice doesn’t just occur in humans but across many species. Other species stimulate themselves too for the purposes of personal pleasure.  Another find on the anthropological front, there is evidence that masturbation took place in the earliest of civilizations. Though it was once thought of in a negative light, psychologists today see masturbation as a healthy, safe practice; a big change over the course of a few decades.  Masturbation is here to stay. Yet the future may see a hands off approach to the act of a different kind than we’ve encountered in the past. Today technology is changing masturbation in interesting and perplexing ways. Technology is changing the act right before our very eyes. Today, it seems that there are lots of hands off technological aids on the market. For instance there is the Fleshlight, a flashlight sort of device with a vagina attached. It can be mounted on a shower wall or another wall giving the user a more natural experience and seemingly taking one’s self completely out of the equation.

Today there are many other such hands-free devices, some which are even motorized with speed controls. In fact, one doesn’t have to do much of anything besides insert one’s self. The device takes one to orgasm all by itself. Another interesting option is the Real Touch Interactive. This hands-free device is not only hands-free, it is connected to a screen which depicts adult movies so that a male user can experience for himself what is happening in the film. Today, many men still have anxiety when it comes to masturbation. Though some believe these devices can be liberating, some psychologists wonder if in fact they will lead to more elevated forms of worry and consternation. Certainly technology in all realms is seeing meteoric growth like never before. One of the most interesting is a statement from a recent study out of the Pew Research Center, entitled, U.S. Views of Technology and the Future: Science in the Next 50 Years, saying the “American public anticipates that the coming half-century will be a period of profound scientific change, as inventions that were once confined to the realm of science fiction come into common usage…overall, most Americans anticipate that the technological developments of the coming half-century will have a net positive impact on society.” Though the report did not focus specifically on masturbation and sex, one wonders what the next breakthroughs in these areas will be and how they will change masturbation and human sexuality

Slow Down in the Bedroom for Optimum Performance

Lots of men rush into sex. But the problem with this is that it often takes a woman longer to get heated up. In this sense men are like microwaves, hot in seconds, where women are like toasters, it takes a little longer to warm things up. What’s more, as a man ages, it may take his equipment longer to get where it needs to be, and the refractory time or the time it takes from orgasm to be able to produce another erection is extended as time goes on. These aren’t problems necessarily. It means instead that you need to switch up your repertoire in order to deal with the situation at hand. Experts say that men and women can have satisfying sex up into the golden years of life. Here are some techniques to help you to slow things down in the bedroom and ensure optimum performance. One of the advantages of opting for a slower pace is that you will elongate the experience, and increase your chances of giving your partner an orgasm. Joel Block, Ph.D. a licensed sex therapist says, “Research suggests that, on average, men orgasm through intercourse in about 2 minutes of active thrusting.” The average is 14 minutes for women. Says Block, “There’s a 12-minute problem!” Slowing things down, incorporating other forms of stimulation such as oral and digital, and giving extended foreplay before penetration can equal out this discrepancy. What’s more, some use a technique called edging, holding off on your own orgasm by pausing just before ejaculation, can make your orgasm stronger and make you last longer.

Intimacy is created and deepened by slow, meaningful sex. That doesn’t mean a quickie can’t be satisfying now and then. But a long, meaningful period of time to revel in her will not only get and keep you both satisfied, you are sending a certain message to her through your actions. “It’s more suggestive of giving her time and allowing her to enjoy the pleasure,” says Block. Kiss her all over. Use a little dirty talk. Tell her how you want to shower her with affection and pleasure. What’s more, for a man of a certain age where it takes a little while to get things going, instead of wallowing in self-pity for how things used to be, revel in the act, focus on your partner and her pleasure and give her the time of her life. Nothing boosts a man’s ego like a satisfied and happy woman. Furthermore, this slowing things down and saving sex not only will give a more pleasurable experience and make you a better lover, you will be turning a situation from a negative, slower operating equipment, to a positive, putting the focus on her and on weaving a sublime experience together. This can also help decrease performance anxiety. Lastly, try Kegels. These exercises can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, allowing you to stave off orgasm and making the experience for both lovers more pleasurable.

Sex Myths Debunked

2014-08-18

Most people by a certain age feel like they know everything about sex. But there are a lot of myths out there too that seem to persist even when someone is older. See how much bedroom knowledge you possess. Here are common sex myths debunked. Most men think that sex is more pleasurable when one is young. Though it may be more rigorous when you are a young buck, middle-aged and even older men report having far more physically and emotionally fulfilling sex lives. Melanie Davis, PhD, CSE a sexuality education consultant says, “There’s less emphasis on quick orgasms and more focus on sensuality, creativity, and emotional connection.” Lots of guys think condoms are no fun. But actually, they can help make it a more pleasurable experience for both parties. 68% of guys use the wrong condom size and shape according to a survey conducted by luckybloke.com. When they tried on a variety of condoms and found the one that was right for them, their sexual pleasure increased significantly. Some guys think the route to a woman’s orgasm is through intercourse. But 75% of women don’t climax this way. Generally, direct clitoral stimulation is needed to make her have the big O. Davis says, “If couples want to climax simultaneously during intercourse, the best bet is for one of them to use their fingers or a vibrator to bring some joy to the clitoris.”

Some believe that women are naturally monogamous, while men are not. But Deboarah Anapol, Ph.D a relationship coach says, “Women are heavily socialized to restrict their sexual attraction to one guy at a time, but women’s biology and personality are both well-suited to multiple partners—more so than men’s.” Others believe that men naturally have a stronger libido than women. Anapol says, “Women can become disinterested as a result of childhood abuse, unaddressed relationship issues, or demands of children and work, but a sexually satisfied woman is a happy, loving woman.” Many men think that they have to have an orgasm to enjoy sex. However, it is possible to orgasm without ejaculation. Tantric sex practices can teach you this. What’s more, many men prefer to orgasm without ejaculation. If your partner puts too much pressure on having you ejaculate, and you don’t feel the need, sit them down and talk with them about it. Tell them how you feel and why you feel that way. Lots of guys think an erection is necessary to enjoy sexual pleasure. But it may not have to be. There are lots of forms of play, and indeed foreplay that get her engine running before intercourse. Still, if you are having erectile issues be sure to see a physician or specialist as it may be a sign of a deeper issue. Lastly, most guys think the bigger their unit, the better. But it’s really not the case. “Compatibility of size is the real barometer,” says Anapol. “A big penis and a small vagina are not a happy combination. Further, knowing how to use the penis skillfully is more important than size.”

Large Penis Misconceptions

2014-08-11

Penis anxiety is rampant in our culture. Ask any man you know well enough their size and see how many tell you average, or even small. The idea of being told you have a small penis is an absolute affront to a man’s masculinity. But how much does the size of one’s unit really count in the bedroom, and how much is part of a large penis misconception weaved into the fabric of our society? Studies have shown that size doesn’t equate to a better relationship or more sexual satisfaction on the part of partners. It could make a partner feel gratitude and you confidence. But it could also lead to overconfidence, meaning one doesn’t listen to and isn’t in tune with one’s partner, in which case the partner’s satisfaction diminishes. One Kenyan survey found that wives were more likely to cheat if their husband’s member was too large, as it caused too much pain, so they weren’t able to feel sexual pleasure or satisfaction. Though many men in our culture and a few women called “size queens” are also obsessed with large penises, most women find that they take a lot of preparation for. What’s more, it isn’t always comfortable or even pleasurable for them.  Men’s Health columnist Nicole Beland said, “Yes, we care about the size of a man’s penis. But when it comes to sexual satisfaction, it’s pretty far down on our list of priorities.”

A recent Australian National University study recently stated that women like bigger penises. But what the media failed to focus on was that the results found that what women prefer is within the range of average to slightly bigger than average. Female attraction actually declined after a certain size. Women also preferred this average to larger size in proportion to a man’s body. They preferred slightly taller men and the size corresponded. This goes with the generally accepted view, though not scientifically accepted that proportionality is attractive, as much as body symmetry is. Though pornography has come to glorify large penises, porn certainly is not real life. In fact, many young men growing up in the age of always accessible internet porn get many misconceptions about sex from these videos. Instead of letting porn tell you what sex should be like, or what preferences people should have, why not investigate what you and your partner like yourselves? It should be a wonderful, exciting journey rather than an anxiety ridden checklist-oriented activity. Some women find that men with large penises though exciting can’t live up to the hype they’ve been given. Sex is not only about penetration. Only one quarter of women can orgasm through regular sex. Most need digital or oral stimulation to reach climax. What’s more, there are techniques to satisfy a woman you can use no matter your size. To truly be the best lover, it isn’t the equipment you’re carrying. What makes the best lover is being relaxed, confident, positive, giving, responsive, open-minded and generous with your partner.

How do you Know When you’re a Sex Addict?

Our society often tells us men want it all the time. But where do you draw the line between a healthy sex drive and obsession? Up to one in 25 men have what is called hypersexuality, or an intense sex drive. Though it didn’t make it in the latest tome of psychological disorders the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) V, it in fact does exist and the newest research claims that it should be viewed as a psychological disorder. A new British study found that when sex addicts watch porn under brain scans, their brains show similar patterns to drug addicts who need their substance, regardless of when it is pleasurable or not. As time goes on, an addict’s brain changes, reshaping the pleasure pathways of the brain and making the addict more driven to finding the object of their addiction, which is why they need the substance or stimulus so badly. But a 2013 UCLA study found that some people are more easily aroused than others. In this study those who self-identified as sex addicts showed a stronger response to sexual images than what they had themselves reported. Researcher in UCLA’s department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and the study’s author Nicole Prause, Ph.D said, “People with a high sexual desire probably have a predisposition to seek out sex because it feels better to them neurologically.”

Even if you feel like you can never get enough, you don’t necessarily have hypersexuality. So how do you know when you’re a sex addict or just a normal guy? If you feel like your sex drive affects those around you negatively or if you are unable to control your sexual desire than you may have this condition.When you can’t draw the line and it starts to affect your job, your relationships, your family or your life in an adverse way, it is time to seek help. Prause says, “Even statistically non-normal behaviors, like masturbating three times a day, may not cause distress or problems in a person’s life.” A problem occurs then when it affects you or those around you negatively. That’s when it’s time to seek out a therapist or a sex therapist. Of course there isn’t exactly a specific diagnosis one can use to determine hypersexuality. Nor is there a specific cure for this condition. But therapy can overcome any behavioral issue so it’s the best way to go. What’s more, if left untreated the problem can and does get worse. A licensed therapist who specializes in sexual disorders should be sought out for hypersexuality. Otherwise, if you just have a strong libido, chalk it up to a superior male virility.