What is shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction, and how does it work?

Do you struggle to gain or maintain an erection?

Not being able to perform in the bedroom can be embarrassing, but erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common global problem – affecting up to one in five men!

It can be a result of medical issues (organic ED), such as vascular disease, nerve damage, hormonal deficiency,  pelvic surgery or pelvic trauma. Alternatively, it can be related to psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or sexual abuse.

ED can also be caused by lifestyle factors, including smoking and drinking alcohol, drug abuse, obesity, fatigue, and sleep disorders – not to mention medications such as antidepressants, diuretics, corticosteroids and medications for heart disease.

At OneWelbeck, our expert urologists specialise in men’s health London-wide and can provide a prompt diagnosis and treatment, including shockwave therapy, to help you regain confidence.

Read on to find out more about this pain-free, minimally invasive, and effective treatment option for erectile dysfunction.

What is shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction?

Shockwave therapy is a clinically-proven, safe, regenerative therapy used to restore vascular and smooth muscle function which in turn helps to restore penile function.

The procedure is non-invasive and involves the use of an ultrasound probe.

This is moved slowly and gently over the penis while low-intensity energy sound waves are passed through the skin and into the penile shaft. .

These shock waves help smooth muscle cells enter a repair mode which helps them to function better and also stimulate the growth of new blood vessels, which helps increase blood flow and allows for a stronger erection.

Shockwave therapy for ED targets the underlying cause of the problem without medication in a way that’s quick, painless, and discreet.

How long does shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction take to work?

Each session lasts half an hour or less, and you can return to work and your daily activities immediately afterwards.

However, the time it takes for the results of shockwave therapy to become apparent can vary depending on your age and the severity of your condition.

For example, some men may notice considerable improvements in as little as a few weeks, while it may take longer for others.

The benefits of shockwave therapy often take longer to come into effect than pills for ED, but most people know that good things take time.

Combining shockwave therapy with other approaches (i.e. improving fitness, strengthening the pelvic floor, and eating healthier) can also provide longer-lasting results.

How many shock wave treatments are needed for erectile dysfunction?

For the cumulative effects to be felt and for the body to respond to the treatment effectively, the recommended course of shockwave therapy for ED is one session per week for six weeks.

Older patients and men with more severe cases of erectile dysfunction may require additional sessions.

After you’ve had six sessions of shockwave therapy, our urologists will review your progress and determine whether you have achieved your end goal or if a further course of treatment is necessary.

Is shockwave therapy expensive?

With shockwave therapy, you’re investing in a holistic treatment approach.

When compared to more invasive treatment options for erectile dysfunction, such as surgery or stem cell therapy, shockwave therapy is a more cost-effective option for erectile dysfunction.

The total cost of treatment will vary depending on how many sessions of shockwave therapy you need, which will be determined on a case-by-case basis during your initial consultation.

As with most therapies, the more sessions you need, the more you’ll pay.

For a better idea of how much shockwave therapy will cost you, why not book your appointment at our men’s health London centre?

Why choose OneWelbeck?

At OneWelbeck, we provide a personalised health screening for a wide range of concerns – including erectile dysfunction.

Arranging a men’s health check at our centre will help determine the cause of your condition and allow us to address any potential health problems before it’s too late.

All tests are carried out on the same day – under one roof – allowing us to provide results quickly.

We have a team of consultant urological surgeons with specialist andrologists including Professor Asif Muneer, Mr Hussain Alnajjar and Mr Rowland Rees, who have a vast experience in treating patients with shockwave therapy for ED.

They ensure that the procedure is carried out quickly, safely, and painlessly and take all the necessary precautions to minimise risks and side effects – ensuring maximum comfort for our patients.

To learn more about shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction at OneWelbeck, get in touch today or book your consultation online.