Sexual Performance and EECP
An erection depends on blood flow to the penis. EECP is a non-surgical method that supports vascular health. In men with heart disease, improvement in erection and sexual satisfaction was reported; no change was seen in desire and orgasm.
- Non-surgical
- 35 Sessions
- Painless
In brief
It may help with sexual function and performance in men with vascular causes.
Erection problems and heart and vascular disease share the same risk factors; for this reason the two are assessed together.
In 120 men with heart disease, erection and satisfaction scores improved, while sexual desire and orgasm scores did not change.
We have not read a study showing that it increases sexual performance in healthy men.
What Does Sexual Performance Depend On?
Sexual life depends on vessels, nerves, hormones and mood working together. For an erection, blood flow to the penis must increase. For this reason vascular health is an important and measurable part of sexual health.
Penile vessels
During an erection, the arteries going to the penis widen and fill with blood. These vessels are small and can be affected early by vascular disease; for this reason an erection problem is sometimes the first sign of vascular disease.
Heart
Heart disease and erection problems share the same risk factors: blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol and smoking. If one is present, the other should be investigated too.
Desire and mood
Sexual desire is related to the brain, hormones and mood. In the EECP study we read, the desire score did not change; for this reason low desire is assessed separately.
Hover over or tap the cards: the related area is highlighted in the illustration.
Inner vessel lining
Nitric oxide released from the inner vessel lining makes the vessels widen. The same mechanism plays a part in erection, which is why the health of the inner vessel lining matters.
Blood sugar
Diabetes can affect sexual function by damaging both vessels and nerves. Sugar control is therefore important for sexual health too.
Area where the cuffs are wrapped
EECP cuffs are wrapped around the calves, thighs and buttocks. The buttock cuff is close to the pelvic region; the cuffs inflate and deflate in sync with the heartbeat.
Sexual Health: Before and With EECP
The comparison below simply illustrates the vascular support EECP aims to provide. The effect varies from person to person; results are compared with scales before and after the course.
Strain of vascular origin
- Weakening of erection
- Reduced sexual satisfaction
- Limited options because of heart medication
Supported vessel function
- Higher flow in the penile artery is the aim
- Satisfaction scores are followed with scales
- The urological treatment plan continues unchanged
Schematic illustration. EECP is not a method used to change sexual desire or hormone levels.
How Does EECP Help?
During treatment you lie down and rest. The device monitors your heart rhythm with an ECG and controls the cuffs accordingly.
Cuffs inflate
While the heart relaxes, the cuffs on the calves, thighs and buttocks inflate in sequence: first the calves, then the thighs and buttocks.
Blood flow increases
Cuff pressure speeds up flow in the vessels. The increased flow stimulates the inner vessel lining and supports nitric oxide release.
The heart's workload is reduced
The pressure is released just before the heart contracts, so the heart can pump more easily. This cycle repeats with every heartbeat.
Assessment is made
Before and after the course a comparison can be made with the international index of sexual function. Results are shared with our urologist and cardiologist.
What Has Been Reported in Studies?
Response varies from person to person. The following are aims and gains reported in studies.
Erectile function
In 120 men with heart disease in an international patient registry, the erection score increased significantly after 35 hours of EECP.
Satisfaction
In the same patients, scores for satisfaction with intercourse and overall satisfaction also improved significantly.
Non-surgical and painless
It is applied externally with cuffs; you lie down and rest throughout the session.
Penile artery
In studies cited in expert opinion, an increase in flow velocity in the penile artery is reported.
Nitrate users
Experts see EECP as an option for erection problems in heart patients who use nitrates.
Straight back to daily life
After the session you can return to your daily tasks straight away.
Who Is It Suitable For, and Who Not?
The cause of the erection problem is investigated first; urology and, if needed, hormone assessment are done. Your heart and vascular status and medication are reviewed by our cardiologist. The decision on EECP is made individually on that basis.
✓May be suitable
- Men with heart disease who have difficulty with sexual function
- Patients who cannot use some erection medications because they take nitrates
- Men with erection problems of vascular origin under urology follow-up
- Men with diabetes who have difficulty with sexual function and maintain sugar control
✕Not suitable
- Severe aortic valve regurgitation
- Aortic aneurysm
- Active deep vein thrombosis, vein inflammation
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Severe rhythm disorders
- Marked bleeding tendency and pregnancy
How Does the Treatment Process Work?
Blood pressure and pulse are checked before every session. At the end of the course, results are reviewed together with our cardiologist. Consultations about sexual health are held in confidence.
Common Questions About Sexual Performance and EECP
Does EECP increase sexual performance?
In men with heart disease, erection and satisfaction scores improved. We have not read a study showing that it increases sexual performance in healthy men.
Will it increase my sexual desire?
In the study we read, desire and orgasm scores did not change. In low desire, hormones, medication and mood should be assessed separately.
Can I use erection medication?
That decision belongs to your doctor. In patients who use nitrates, some erection medications can be dangerous; be sure to share your medication list with both your urologist and our cardiologist.
How does this page differ from the erectile dysfunction page?
The erectile dysfunction page covers diagnosed erection problems and their treatment. This page covers sexual function in general, areas such as desire and satisfaction, and realistic expectations.
How many sessions are needed?
The standard course is 35 sessions: 5 days a week, 60 minutes per session. You return to daily life straight after a session. The 35-hour course was also used in the study of men with heart disease.
Does it affect sexual function in women?
We have not read a study examining the effect of EECP on sexual function in women. For this reason we do not promise any benefit in this area for women.
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Contact us for a free preliminary assessment
Let's talk about your questions on sexual health in confidence. Our cardiologist will assess your heart and vascular condition and medication and tell you whether EECP may be suitable for you. If needed, we will refer you to urology.
- Non-surgical
- Painless
- Under medical supervision
- Nicosia, Cyprus