(111) Penile Constriction Device Satisfaction: Does Sexual Preference Have Any Effect on Preferences and Effectiveness?
Authors: Pearlman A , Cheng P , Orozco Rendon D , Saffati G , Whitehead C , Zuckerman C , Hom A , Daily R , Justin E , Khera M 
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Penile constriction devices are a noninvasive way to improve sexual performance and erectile function, making them an appealing choice for men. To understand their clinical value and patient satisfaction, it is important to assess patient preferences and the efficacy of different devices. Comparative studies between heterosexual and homosexual men are also necessary to recognize and meet the diverse needs and experiences of these populations, leading to more tailored and effective recommendations.

Objective

To assess and compare the preference and effectiveness of two medical-grade penile constriction devices between heterosexual and homosexual men.

Methods

Between May 2023 and July 2023, males were recruited via social media platforms and prospectively enrolled into an IRB-approved, randomized, questionnaire-based study. Upon enrollment, the participants completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males (ADAM). Participants were then randomized to which device (FirmTech vs by Giddy) they would receive first and were instructed to use the device twice either during masturbation or intercourse within a two-week timeframe. Once utilized, the participants completed a 17-question, five-point Likert scale device satisfaction questionnaire. Once the first device and survey were completed the other device was sent and the process was repeated. In the device satisfaction questionnaire, lower numbers indicated more positive responses to the questions. We then took the data collected and matched 2 homosexual participants to 1 heterosexual participant by age. Responses from the questionnaire with numerical values are presented as the mean difference (MD) and analyzed using a paired t-test. Questionnaire responses that were “yes” or “no” were analyzed using McNemar’s chi-square analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Fifty men were enrolled and 44 completed the study. After matching the patients by age, 21 were included in the analysis. Among the 21 participants, 14 (66.7%) were homosexual and 7 (33.3%) heterosexual. There was no statistically significant preference or effectiveness amongst the heterosexual group for either device. However when comparing both devices within the homosexual group, 11 (78.6%)) would recommend the FirmTech to a friend, compared to 5 (35.7%) who would recommend the Eddie by Giddy device (p=0.0412). Within the homosexual group, they preferred the ease of putting on the device while flaccid and erect and its comfort (MDs -1.14, -1.79, and-1.50; respective p-values 0.0019, 0.0010, and 0.0160). Homosexual participants also had a significantly better overall impression of the FirmTech device (MD=-0.79; p=0.0099). Lastly, the homosexual participants were significantly more likely to use the FirmTech device in partnered sex as compared to the Giddy (MD=-01.36, p=0.0038).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that homosexual men favor the FirmTech device over the Eddie by Giddy, rating it more positively and being more likely to recommend it to a friend. Further research with a larger and more diverse sample is needed to fully comprehend the different preferences and satisfaction with penile constriction devices among men with different sexual orientations.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: FirmTech

Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: FirmTech.