The metal coil straightens when heated. (Picture: University of Wisconsin–Madison)

Erectile dysfunction is a real downer (pun intended).

'Will the new government guidelines end my coronavirus crush?'

For years people have had to make do with Viagra (which, while effective for some, can cause serious side effects) and penis pumps.

But now a group of urologists at the University of Wisconsin have come up with what they say is a more effective, medication-free solution: a heat-activated metal rod designed to be implanted into the penis.

The device is a metal coil made of nickel titanium alloy. When cool, it’s bendy, flexible, and flaccid. When heated, it becomes straight, erect, and rigid.


To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

Its creators intend for those with erectile dysfunction to be able to get a coil fitted to the desired size and shape of their erect penis, which would then be inserted in the penis and attached to the base.



Which all sounds potentially life-changing and brilliant. There’s just one problem.

As the device is made erect through heat, it can be activated either through a battery powered device, which would create an electric field to conduct heat, or through putting the penis in hot water.

(Picture: University of Wisconsin–Madison)

This means that any time the user takes a warm bath or shower, they’ll pop a boner. Not a massive issue, sure, but it could be a bit strange if you use communal showers or regularly visit saunas.

To make the penis flaccid again, the user will need to place a cold flannel on the area.

Urologists reckon the battery powered electric field method might be a wiser option, and plan to continue testing the best heat-activation methods so they can release their product in the next five to ten years.

MORE: Presenting the future of contraception: The dick switch

MORE: Bionic penis activates with a remote control

MORE: Why I’d rather have a sex robot boyfriend than a real boyfriend in 2016

Advertisement Advertisement