The causes of erectile dysfunction vary both physically and mentally, and it is often difficult to identify the underlying problem. One of the main signs of physical The problem is the lack of nighttime erections.
A healthy man has three to five erections each night, with each erection lasting about 30 minutes. Scientists believe that nocturnal erections are important for supplying blood and oxygen to the penis and maintaining healthy tissue. Men with physical problems, such as poor blood flow, may be unable to achieve nighttime erections, which can lead to atrophy of penile tissue, which can worsen erectile dysfunction.
There is a simple at-home test that can help men determine if they have nighttime erections.
How to Perform a “Stamp Test”
Stamp testing requires an old-fashioned stamp roll with holes drilled into it. Not the kind where you peel off the backing strip, but the kind you lick to wet the adhesive.
Before going to bed, wrap a bundle of stamps around the base of your penis. Please overlap one stamp, wet it and stick it. Wear briefs that will keep your penis in place to prevent the band from slipping off at night.
If the perforation breaks in the morning, it means that you have an erection during the night. Repeat the test for three consecutive days. If you haven't had signs of nocturnal erections for at least two nights, consult your doctor.
If you can't find a perforated stamp, you can use a 1-inch wide facial tissue (Kleenex) taped down. But don't wrap the tape completely around your penis!
The stamp test is a good indicator, but it is not a hard test. Your doctor may also have you do another test using a portable home device called a Rigiscan.
What to do if you can't get an erection at night
Lack of nocturnal erections can cause damage to penile tissue, which may actually shrink over time. You can reverse this effect by increasing blood flow to the penis by using a vacuum pump for about 10 minutes, twice a day.
More importantly, you should consult your doctor. Erectile dysfunction and lack of nighttime erections are signs of a medical problem, which can sometimes be serious.