Erection self-test

How the Test is Performed:
A strip of four to six stamps (any kind) is used for each test. The test needs to be done for three nights. The man needs to wear brief-type undershorts that have a fly. The penis is brought through the fly leaving most of the pubic hair against the body. The strip of stamps is wrapped snugly around the shaft of the penis. The stamps need to overlap so the overlapped stamp can be moistened to seal the ring. When the stamp has dried, the penis is carefully replaced inside the shorts. The shorts are worn to sleep in. (They help protect the stamps from falling off). In the morning, check to see if the stamp ring has been broken along the perforations. If the tearing of the stamps awakens the man during the night, check for an erection and how rigid the erection is.

How to Prepare:
The stamps need to be obtained. Do not drink alcohol or take a sleep-inducing or sedative medication for at least 2 days before the test is done.

How it Feels:
The stamps may be felt as an unusual sensation.

Risks:
There are no risks.

Why this Test is Performed:
The test is done to confirm if the man is unable to maintain an erection at all. The test may be helpful in determining if the cause is psychologic or physical. During certain stages of sleep the man may have an erection without being aware of it.

Normal Values:
During at least one of the nights, the ring of stamps is broken between any two stamps.

Abnormal Results:
If the stamps are broken it may suggest that the erection problem is the result of psychological causes. If the stamps are not broken on any of the 3 nights it may indicate that the erection problem is related to physical conditions or medications (see impotence ). The health care provider should be consulted.

Cost:
The estimated cost is for the stamps.

Special Considerations:
The test is not foolproof. This test does not indicate many important factors, such as firmness of the erection or the duration or number of erections during the night. Sexual counseling may be recommended after consulting the health care provider.