Erection self-test

Alternative Names

Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) stamp test; Nighttime penile tape test

Normal Values

During at least one of the nights, the ring of stamps is broken between any two stamps.

What abnormal results mean

If the stamp ring is broken, it means that erection problems while you are awake may be the result of a psychological cause.

If the stamp ring does not break on any of the 3 nights it may be a sign that the erection problem is related to physical conditions or medications. You should make an appointment to see a doctor. See also: Impotence

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Erection self-test

Review Date: 09/22/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).