Penile Vibratory Stimulation

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Penile Vibratory Stimulation (PVS) is considered first line treatment of anejaculation in men. Common causes may be spinal cord injuries, diabetes mellitus, or medication-induced ejaculatory dysfunction.

PVS involves placing a vibrating stimulator on the dorsum or frenulum of the glans penis. The mechanical vibration stimulates the ejaculatory reflex to induce ejaculation. This method is more effective in men with an intact ejaculatory reflex and injury at T10 or above compared with men who a level at T11 or below. In men who are unable to ejaculate with the assistance of PVS, electroejaculation and other therapies for sperm retrieval are often discussed.

About The Procedure

The procedure is performed with the individual either sitting or lying down in a comfortable position. The penile vibratory device is applied to the glans (head of penis), vibrating against the dorsum (topside) and frenulum (underside) for periods of 2-3 minutes or until ejaculation occurs. There is a resting time of 1-2 minutes between stimulation periods. The entire procedure can take up to 30-45 minutes. The goal of PVS is to stimulate the ejaculatory reflex, which is present with a preserved spinal cord below the T10 nerve root. While the procedure is being performed, it’s not uncommon to have somatic or muscle tissue reactions such as erections, abdominal muscle contractions, or leg spasms.

Side effects of the procedure may include autonomic dysreflexia in patients with spinal cord injuries at or above the T6 level which presents as headache, skin flushing, sweating, chest tightness, uncontrolled blood pressure, and decreased pulse. If you are at risk for these side effects, you may be premedicated with a blood pressure medication such as nifedipine.

See more information on PVS.

When to Contact Your Health Care Provider

Call your doctor if you have:

  • Trouble urinating or cannot urinate
  • A fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
  • Pain that gets worse or does not improve with medication
  • Uncontrolled nausea and vomiting
  • Pain or swelling in your legs
  • Chills and body shakes
  • Active bleeding, increased redness or drainage, or unusual swelling in the area of the incision
  • Any allergic reaction to your prescribed medication.

During work hours (8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday – Friday) call: UF Health Urology Clinic at 352-265-8240.

AFTER HOURS OR WEEKENDS: Call UF Health Shands operator at 352-265-0111 and ask the operator for the urology resident on-call.