Some men find the elastic ring uncomfortable to wear or have difficulty coordinating the process. Using the device can be built into the sexual experience, although some partners report discomfort with the disruption. Again, discussing these issues with your spouse or partner will help you make better choices. Injections of medication directly into the penile shaft can also stimulate erections, or help maintain them. Despite sounding painful, most men actually report little discomfort after learning the procedure themselves.
Partners can also learn to do the injections.
Combinations of all three drugs may be the best option for long-term use and decreased risk of side effects. The erections last between 40 and 60 minutes and most men report no adverse side effects. In a small percentage of men, scar tissue may form at the site of the injection. Because having an implant will destroy the natural erection reflex, it is important to use this option only when erections are unlikely to improve on their own. The rod can be bent up into an erection, or down into a relaxed position.