UROLOGIST EXPLAINS: 3 Exercises That Will Boost Your Erection and Sexual Function | MEN'S HEALTH

Key Concepts

Erection (vascular, neurological, hormonal, emotional, psychological aspects), vascular health, pelvic floor muscles, Kegel exercises, penile vacuum pump (vacuum therapy), penile extender, internal iliac artery, internal pudendal artery, cavernous arteries, penile artery, dorsal artery of the penis, vasodilators (tadalafil, sildenafil), erectile dysfunction, radical prostatectomy, ischemia, local necrosis, penile lengthening.

1. Perineal Exercises (Kegel Exercises)

Perineal exercises, commonly known as Kegel exercises, are crucial for stimulating the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a vital role not only in erection and ejaculation but also in urinary and fecal continence. The exercises involve lifting, contracting, and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles.

Key Points:

• Muscle Identification: To locate the pelvic floor muscles, try briefly stopping the flow of urine mid-stream. The muscles activated during this action are the target muscles for Kegel exercises.
• Protocol: Contract and relax these muscles for 5 seconds, performing a set of 10 repetitions. Aim for two to three sets per day for a minimum of 6 weeks.
• Benefits: Improves sexual and ejaculatory function.
• Recommendation: Consulting a physical therapist specializing in the pelvic floor is advisable for proper guidance.

2. Exercises with a Penile Vacuum Pump (Vacuum Therapy)

Vacuum therapy involves using a penile vacuum pump to create negative pressure, increasing blood flow to the penis and facilitating an erection. It is used in the rehabilitation of erectile dysfunction, particularly after radical prostatectomy, and is included in protocols to improve erectile function.

Key Points:

• Mechanism: The penile pump, a cylindrical device, is attached to the penis to create a seal and increase blood flow through negative pressure.
• Usage: The pump can be used for 10 to 15 minutes. Some patients use a silicone ring at the base of the penis after removing the pump to maintain the erection.
• Frequency: Vacuum therapy can be used two to three times per week, or even daily, but for a maximum time of 15 to 30 minutes.
• Caution: Professional guidance is essential, especially initially, to avoid complications such as ischemia, pain, and local necrosis.
• Device Selection: Consult a physical therapist specializing in the pelvic floor to recommend the best device.
• Synergistic Effect: Studies show that combining tadalafil with vacuum therapy leads to better rehabilitation and recovery of sexual function compared to using tadalafil alone.

3. Penile Extender

The penile extender is a device used in sexual function rehabilitation protocols and penile lengthening protocols.

Key Points:

• Usage: Using a penile extender for 1 to 2 hours per day for a period of at least 3 to 6 months can improve sexual function, erection, penile vascularization, and lead to penile lengthening.
• Custom Fitting: The device should be custom fitted, and the traction regulated according to a specific study protocol.
• Importance of Diligence: Consistent use, appropriate device size, gradual increase in usage period, and persistence with the treatment are crucial for achieving the expected performance.

Vascular Anatomy and Physiology

Erection is primarily a vascular phenomenon, requiring adequate blood flow to the penis. Blood reaches the penis through arteries originating from the abdominal aorta.

Key Points:

• Internal Iliac Artery: The penile blood flow begins in the internal iliac artery, a branch of the abdominal aorta.
• Internal Pudendal Artery: The internal iliac artery branches into the internal pudendal artery, the main arterial branch associated with penile blood flow and erection.
• Smaller Branches: The internal pudendal artery gives rise to smaller branches such as the cavernous arteries, the penile artery, and the dorsal artery of the penis, which irrigate the penis.
• Vasodilators: Medications like tadalafil and sildenafil are prescribed as vasodilators to improve blood flow by dilating the arteries.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The video presents three exercises aimed at improving sexual performance and function by enhancing vascular health and pelvic floor muscle strength. Kegel exercises focus on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, while vacuum therapy and penile extenders aim to improve blood flow and potentially increase penile length. The speaker emphasizes the importance of proper technique, professional guidance, and consistent practice to achieve optimal results and avoid potential complications. The video also highlights the vascular nature of erections and the importance of healthy blood flow to the penis.