Nocturnal erection test & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is the nocturnal erection test?

The Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) erection test checks whether a man has normal erections during sleep. Most men have 3 to 5 full erections during REM (Rapid Eye Movement or the deepest phase of sleep). Men who do not have an erection due to psychological problems can still experience an erection during deep sleep. Sometimes, some serious sleep problems or depression can prevent a normal nighttime (nocturnal) erection.

This test can be done at home or in a specialized sleep laboratory. Either of two ways can be used.

a simple device like a ring which is called snap gauge consists of a plastic film placed around the penis. The films will crack at a certain pressure. Erection during sleep will cause the film to crack
an electronic monitoring device will record how many, how long, and how stiff erections are during sleep. These electronic monitors are more expensive than using snap gauges, but are more accurate and provide more detailed information about erections during sleep

The test is usually done for at least two nights in a row. If a good erection occurs during sleep, the cause of the erection problem may not be physical.

The NPT test can also be called a stampt test or rigidity test.

When should I have a nocturnal erection test?

Tests for erection problems that are done to help find out if the cause of the erection problem is physical, psychological, or a combination of the two.

Physical conditions that can cause erection problems include:

problems with the penile nerves. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes can cause nerve damage that affects a man's ability to have an erection. Surgery, wound care, or radiation to the pelvic area can also cause damage to the nerves of the penis
problems with the blood vessels supplying blood to the penis. Conditions such as hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) can make it difficult for a man to have an erection. Activities such as riding a bicycle over long distances with a narrow, hard saddle can increase a man's risk of having erection problems
low levels of hormones, such as testosterone or thyroid hormones
side effects of medications, such as medicines taken for high blood pressure (hypertension) or depression
use of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs
Psychological testing may be needed if no physical cause for the erection problem is found.

Causes of psychological problems with erections may include:

anxiety about sexual performance
relationship problems
stress
depression or sadness

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before getting a nocturnal erection test?

You may feel embarrassed about taking the test. Remember that this test is important for finding the cause of your inability to have an erection and you shouldn't feel embarrassed about taking this test. Erection problems are sometimes normal. If you can usually have and maintain a full erection, testing is usually not necessary. Your erection problems may stem from stress or anxiety or relationship problems. Psychological testing may be recommended if a physical cause is found for your erection problem. You may want to see a counselor who specializes in sexual problems.

An angiogram may be recommended if initial tests can't find the cause of your erection problems. An angiogram is an X-ray test that takes pictures of blood flow in the arteries. Experts are not sure how the angiogram test could be useful because treatment to repair penile blood vessels will be an option for only some people with this particular problem. Dorsal nerve conduction tests, potency studies, and penile biothesiometry are extensive neurological tests to check nerve supply to the penis. These nervous system tests are generally not performed or are not widely available.

Process

What should I do before getting a nocturnal erection test?

Do not take drugs that cause an erection, such as sildenafil (for example, Viagra), tadalafil (for example, Cialis), and vardenafil (for example, Levitra), before the test.

Do not drink alcohol or take sleeping pills for 2 days before you have your nocturnal erection (NPT) test. Alcohol and pills can alter your sleep time (REM), which can affect nocturnal erections.

How is the process of a nocturnal erection test?

It is especially helpful if you wear the type of clothing / pants with an elastic waist (not short boxer shorts) with a front that opens when you are ready to go to sleep. Pull out your penis through the exposed front and keep your pubic hair in the panties. Place the device around your penis. After you place the device, carefully place your penis inside your clothes.

The types of devices you can use include:

Snap gauge. A snap gauge is a ring-like device made of plastic film that fits snugly around the penis. The films will crack at a certain pressure. A snap gauge will crack during an erection. It can also tell how big an erection the penis is. This test is usually done 2 or 3 nights in a row.

Electronic devices. An electronic device measures changes in penis size. The device has one or more elastic loops that loop snugly around the penis. It is connected to a small unit that records changes as the loop expands.

What should I do after having a nocturnal erection test?

Your doctor will discuss your test results and provide suitable treatment. Sometimes, your doctor may ask for further tests. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully.