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Medical Video: Morning Erections Medical Course
Definition
What is a nocturnal erection test?
Nocturnal erection tests or Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) checks whether a man has a normal erection during sleep. Most men have 3 to 5 full erections during REM (Rapid Eye Movement or deepest sleep phase). Men who do not have an erection due to psychological problems can still experience an erection during deep sleep. Sometimes, some sleep problems or serious depression can prevent a normal erection at night (nocturnal).
This test can be done at home or in a special sleep laboratory. One of two ways can be used.
- a simple device like a ring called snap gauge consists of a plastic film mounted 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 much, how long, and how rigid the erection is during sleep. This electronic monitoring device is more expensive than using a snap gauge, but is more accurate and provides more detailed information about erections during sleep
Tests are usually carried out for at least two consecutive nights. If a good erection occurs during sleep, the cause of an erection problem may not be physical.
The NPT test can also be called stampt test or rigidity test.
When should I have a nocturnal erection test?
Tests for erectile problems are performed to help determine whether the cause of an erectile problem is physical, psychological, or a combination of both.
Physical conditions that can cause erectile problems include:
- problems with penile nerves. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes can cause nerve damage that affects a man's ability to experience an erection. Surgery, wound care, or radiation for the pelvic area can also cause damage to the penile nerve
- problems with blood vessels that supply blood to the penis. Conditions such as hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) can make it difficult for a man to experience an erection. Activities such as long distance riding with a narrow and hard saddle can increase a man's risk of having an erectile problem
- low levels of hormones, such as testosterone or thyroid hormone
- side effects of drugs, such as drugs taken for high blood pressure (hypertension) or depression
- use of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs
- psychological tests may be needed if there are no physical causes for erectile problems.
Causes of erectile psychological problems may include:
- anxiety about sexual performance
- relationship problem
- stressed out
- depression or sadness
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing a nocturnal erection test?
You may feel embarrassed to do the test. Remember that this test is important to find the cause of your inability to get an erection and you don't need to feel embarrassed to undergo this test. Erectile problems are sometimes normal. If you can usually experience and maintain a full erection, tests are usually not needed. Your erectile problems may come from stress or anxiety or relationship problems. Psychological tests may be recommended if there are physical causes found in your erectile problem. You might want to see a counselor who specializes in sexual problems.
Angiogram may be recommended if the initial test cannot find the cause of your erectile problem. Angiogram is an X-ray test that takes pictures of blood flow in the arteries. Experts are not sure how an angiogram test can be useful because treatment to repair penis blood vessels will be an option for only a few people with this particular problem. Back nerve conduction tests, potential studies, and penile biothesiometry are extensive neurological tests to check nerve supply to the penis. These nervous system tests are generally not carried out or are not widely available.
Process
What should I do before undergoing a nocturnal erection test?
Do not take drugs that cause erections, 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 undergo a nocturnal erection test (NPT). Alcohol and pills can change your sleep time (REM), which can affect nocturnal erections.
What is the process of nocturnal erection testing?
It would be very helpful if you wear a type of clothing / pants with an elastic waist (not short boxers) with front panties that can be opened when you are ready to sleep. Remove your penis through the open front and keep your pubic hair in the underpants. Place the device around your penis. After you place the device, carefully place your penis in your clothes.
The types of devices that you can use include:
- Snap gauge. A snap gauge is a device like a ring made of plastic film that fits around the penis. The films will crack at a certain pressure. A snap gauge will crack during erection. This can also tell how much the penis has an erection. This test is usually done 2 or 3 consecutive nights.
- Electronic devices. Electronic devices measure changes in penis size. The device has one or more elastic loops that are looped right around the penis. This tool is connected to a small unit that records changes when the loop widens.
What should I do after undergoing a nocturnal erection test?
Your doctor will discuss the results of your test and provide appropriate treatment. Sometimes, your doctor may request further examination. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
Explanation of Test Results
What do the test results mean?
Erection may occur if:
- one or more films on the snap crack gauge
- Electronic devices record an increase in penis size
Erection is unlikely if:
- no film on the snap gauge is damaged
- Electronic devices have not recorded an increase in penis size
This test is more accurate if repeated tests show the same results.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
