Application of Sex Aids in Men with Sexual Dysfunction: A Review

Abstract

Background Although sex aids have been used in clinical practice for ages, the scientific literature assessing their application in men with sexual dysfunction is limited. Aim To summarize medical literature regarding scientific uses of the most common sex aids in men with sexual dysfunction and assess their clinical applicability. Methods An extensive literature review was performed with regard to the use of sex aids in sexual medicine. Our search included journal articles, books, and guidelines in different databases: Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane. The key words were “sex aids,” “sex toys,” “pornography,” “lubricants,” “constriction bands,” “dildos,” “vibrators,” “vacuum devices,” “external penile devices,” and “sex swings” were searched. Date of last search was December 4, 2018. Main Outcome Measures We assessed the utility of sex aids in men with sexual dysfunction and formulated recommendations for clinicians. Results Various sex aids are available for men with sexual dysfunction. We present a comprehensive review of the most common sex aids currently available: pornography, lubricants, constriction bands, dildos, vibrators, vacuum devices, external erectile support devices, and aids to positioning. We discuss their indications, outcomes, precautions, and complications. Clinical implications This review is intended to provide sexual medicine practitioners and academics an overview of sex aids for men with sexual dysfunction for use in both clinical practice and research. Strengths & Limitations This is a compilation of scientific data for a topic that has broad application in sexual medicine and yet has been poorly addressed in the scientific literature. Because of the lack of sufficient data and the heterogeneous nature of different sex aids, a systematic review could not be performed. Conclusion Having a comprehensive understanding of the sexual dynamics of individuals and couples combined with the appropriate integration of sex aids may have a positive effect in the treatment of male sexual dysfunctions.

Cognitive processes related to problematic pornography use (PPU): A systematic review of experimental studies

“…There is considerable debate regarding the benefits and potential risks of this increasing ubiquity of pornography, especially in adolescents and young people (for a review, see Döring, 2009 ). For example, some studies highlight that pornography may be an effective mean to satisfy sexual desire ( Daneback, Ševčíková, Mänsson, & Ross, 2013 ), compensate for the lack of knowledge about sexuality and explore sexuality safely ( Smith, 2013 ), add variety to offline sexual relationships ( Daneback, Træen, & Månsson, 2009 ), distract from boredom and everyday problems ( Hald & Malamuth, 2008 ), or assist in the treatment of certain sexual dysfunctions ( Miranda et al, 2019 ). On the other hand, pornography could also cause a broad range of problems as a consequence of either the ‘types of pornographic contents used’ or ‘the way in which pornography is consumed’ ( Owens, Behun, Manning, & Reid, 2012 ).…”

Penile Entrapment With Thick Penile Ring: A Case Report and Literature Review

“…When a boy appears with unexplained penile enlargement, ulceration, and urine leakage, the doctor should keep this in mind [7,8]. The use of metal rings for sexual reasons in adults has been reported [1,5]. Complications can be avoided if the ring is presented and extracted as quickly as possible.…”

“…Sex aids, also known as sex toys, refer to tools or devices that are used mainly to facilitate human sexual pleasure. The use of sex aids for more than 30,000 years has been reported by archeologists [1]. Moreover, one of the first treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED) was detailed around 300 AD, detailing penis extensions made of wood or reeds tied to the waist.…”

The Biopsychosocial Model and the Sex-Positive Approach: an Integrative Perspective for Sexology and General Health Care

“…Several treatments of male and female sexual dysfunction in sexual medicine have often put aside pleasure and satisfaction, favouring the primacy of function (Fahs, 2014;Grunt-Mejer, 2021;Levin, 2020). Moreover, clinicians may have prejudices against people with alternative erotic preferences and might feel uncomfortable and inadequate talking about clitoral stimulation, masturbation, female ejaculation, BDSM bondage-discipline/domination-submission/sadismmasochism), kinky practices and sex toys (Botta et al, 2019;Eichenberg et al, 2019;Hoff & Sprott, 2009;Jannini et al, 2012;Kolmes et al, 2006;Miranda et al, 2019).…”