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The Safety of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Use During Anal Intercourse

The Safety of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Use During Anal Intercourse

Introduction

An inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is a medical device used to treat erectile dysfunction. It is surgically implanted in the penis to help men achieve and maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity.


The device has inflatable cylinders that can be filled with fluid to create an erection by utilizing a pump surgically placed in the scrotum. When the erection is no longer needed, a valve is used to release the fluid back into a reservoir where it remains until it needs to be used again.

Although IPP is effective and has high satisfaction rates, little is known about its use during anal intercourse, particularly in men who have sex with men. A new study aims to determine the maximum force exerted during anal penetration to provide valuable information for clinicians and patients considering IPPs. Understanding this mechanical stress is crucial for ensuring device effectiveness and patient satisfaction.

Methods

Researchers, with Institutional Review Board approval, studied 6 men who have sex with men engaging in anal intercourse. Using a hand-held force gauge device, they measured forces applied to a silicone phallus simulating the average male size during anal penetration. Participants were positioned with flexed hips and their elbows resting on a table, and the device was inserted into the anal canal for five measurements. The force gauge was calibrated, sterilized, and covered with a condom before each use. Descriptive statistics were calculated for demographic and survey data.

Results

The study included participants aged 52 to 64, all identifying as white gay men. They reported varying frequencies of receptive anal intercourse. The average maximum force during anal penetration was 26.5 Newtons (2.7 kilograms), with individual forces ranging from 16.1 to 51.7 Newtons (1.64 to 5.27 kilograms). Participants engaging less often in receptive anal intercourse tended to have higher forces (41.6 N or 4.24 kg) than those with more frequent engagement (25.7 N or 2.62 kg). These findings offer insights into the forces associated with anal intercourse in this population.

Discussion & Conclusion

The study compared forces during anal penetration to existing data on penile prostheses, providing insight into the mechanical aspects. Previous studies on vaginal penetration were referenced, citing forces between 500-1500 grams. The study measured forces in a sample of men with inflatable penile prostheses (IPP) during anal penetration, recording a median force of 26.5 Newtons (2.7 kilograms). This force exceeded historical values for vaginal penetration, suggesting the importance of careful IPP inflation for those engaging in anal intercourse. However, limitations and other confounders, including a small sample size and variations in study methodologies, were acknowledged. The study highlights the need for further research on safe IPP use during anal intercourse for better patient counseling.

Pelvic Pain in Transgender Individuals on Testosterone

Pelvic Pain in Transgender Individuals on Testosterone

Introduction

Transgender individuals have a gender identity that differs from their assigned sex at birth. Many transgender individuals are interested in therapies that may help them externally align their physical traits with their internal gender, such as testosterone therapy.

The Role of Culturally Representative Imagery of Vulvas in Patient-Centered Sexual Health Care

The Role of Culturally Representative Imagery of Vulvas in Patient-Centered Sexual Health Care

Introduction

In medical and patient education, visual images play a crucial role in enhancing understanding and communication. The integration of visual elements with text has proven effective in health education, particularly in facilitating dialogue between healthcare practitioners and patients.

Quality of Life After Penile Cancer Surgery: A Systematic Review

Quality of Life After Penile Cancer Surgery: A Systematic Review

Introduction

Penile cancer, though rare, affects over 36,000 individuals globally each year, with increasing incidence in some countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway. Surgical approaches have evolved from radical amputation to organ-sparing surgery, aiming to preserve the penis.

History of Infertility Not Associated With Sexual Dysfunction in Midlife Women

History of Infertility Not Associated With Sexual Dysfunction in Midlife Women

Introduction

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a baby after a year (12 months) of trying with regular and unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a significant issue, especially for women, causing psychological stress due to expensive treatments, uncertainty, and social pressure. Infertility can also harm a woman’s self-esteem, sexual confidence, and overall well-being, thereby increasing the risk of sexual problems.

How Might Female Stress Urinary Incontinence Affect Male Partners’ Sexual Function?

How Might Female Stress Urinary Incontinence Affect Male Partners’ Sexual Function?

Introduction

Urinary incontinence is a common problem that affects many people’s lives. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a prevalent type, especially among women. It can cause physical discomfort and impact one’s mental health and overall quality of life. SUI can also affect a person’s sexual function in about 50% of cases.

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