Over the years, there have been many major advances in ED treatment, from oral medications that can help men achieve an erection, to penile implants. Dr. Fenig will work with you to thoroughly discuss the options that are best for your individual case, and answer any questions. He also encourages you to involve your partner in all phases of your treatment to ensure you and your significant other are comfortable with your options and the choice you make.
Dr. Fenig understands that erectile dysfunction is an emotional condition as well as a physical one and provides compassionate care, discretion and years of experience to help return you to your normal sexual self.
Dr. Fenig will work with you to determine the best treatment option for you:
Oral Medications
Oral Medications such as Viagra®, Cialis®, Levitra®, and Staxyn® work by increasing the blood flow to the penis so that a man can become aroused and erect when sexually stimulated. These prescription medications are often the first line of treatment for men experiencing erectile dysfunction.
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- Natural erections
Disadvantages:
- Can take up to an hour to work
- Less spontaneity
- Produces an erection only after physical and psychological stimulation
- Costly, and may not be covered by insurance
- Cannot be used more than once a day
- May not be advised by your physician if you’ve had a heart attack, stroke or life-threatening heart rhythm, or if you are taking nitrates
PENILE PROSTHESES
Penile Prostheses or implants have been in use for more than 30 years. These implants can provide an effective surgical option for men who are not satisfied with the results, or side effects, they have experienced from other treatment options. There are many benefits and few downsides to this option.
Learn more about Penile Prostheses here.
ENERGY WAVE THERAPY
Energy Wave Therapy is an exciting new approach to treating erectile dysfunction. This non-invasive procedure uses low-frequency sound waves to increase blood flow to the penis to optimize erections, sensitivity, and sexual performance. With energy wave therapy men can achieve natural, spontaneous erections without ED medication.
Vacuum Erection Device
A Vacuum Erection Device is a plastic cylinder that is placed over the penis, and a pump (either manual or battery operated) creates vacuum suction within the cylinder, drawing blood into the penis to create an erection. A stretchable tension band placed at the base of the penis can help maintain the erection.
Advantages:
- Economical
- Can be used anytime
- Takes only five to ten minutes to apply
Disadvantages:
- Can be cumbersome and may decrease intimacy associated with foreplay
- Body shape may make it difficult to use device
- Penis may be floppy or cold during erection
- May inhibit the normal flow of ejaculation
Penile Injections
Injection therapy uses a small needle to inject medication directly into the penis. The medicine relaxes the blood vessels and allows for increased blood flow into the penis, creating an erection.
Advantages:
- Erection occurs in five to 20 minutes and lasts 30-60 minutes
- Can be used anytime
- Feels natural
Disadvantages:
- Can be costly
- May have side effects such as bleeding, penile curvature, and long, painful erections if not used appropriately or monitored closely by your physician
Intraurethral Suppositories
Intraurethral Suppositories contain medication that works like the penile injection. A small pellet (suppository) is inserted into the urethra to deliver the medication and increase blood flow to the penis.
Advantages:
- Can be used anytime
- Produces an erection in eight to 10 minutes, which last 15-30 minutes
Disadvantages:
- May produce side effects that include aching or a burning sensation, redness, and minor bleeding or spotting
- Can be costly
