By Dr. Alejandro Silva Garretón - Specialist in Urology, Andrology and Sexual Medicine. GUA Urology and Andrology, Gran Canaria.
Table of Contents
- Shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction: context and objectives
- Why do difficulties in maintaining an erection occur?
- What are low intensity shock waves?
- What benefits can the patient notice?
- Who are good candidates for this treatment?
- In which cases is it not the best option?
- When will the results be noticeable?
- Why to undergo treatment at GUA Urology and Andrology?
- Conclusion: when to value shock waves
- Make an appointment today
Shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction: context and objectives
Erectile dysfunction is a very common problem in men from 45-50 years of age. It can appear punctually or be maintained over time, affecting security, sexual life and the relationship with a partner. Although oral treatments such as PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, etc.) are usually effective, they do not always work the same in all patients or may lose effect over the years.
In recent years, low-intensity shock waves have become a therapeutic alternative to improve erectile function by acting directly on one of the most common causes of this problem: decreased blood flow to the penis. For many men, this technique offers a non-invasive, painless way to regain firmer and more natural erections.
If you want a broader view on causes and treatments of erectile dysfunction, you can consult our article "Erectile dysfunction in men: when to worry and how to treat it" and our specific page on erectile dysfunction.
Why do difficulties in maintaining an erection occur?
Erection depends on the correct blood filling of the corpora cavernosa of the penis. With age, certain habits (smoking, sedentary lifestyle) or diseases such as hypertension, diabetes or high cholesterol can cause the blood vessels to narrow or harden. This makes it difficult for the amount of blood necessary for a firm erection to reach the penis.
Common signs and symptoms
- Weaker erections.
- Difficulty in maintaining them.
- Need for greater stimulation.
- Worse response to oral medication.
This type of erectile dysfunction is known as vasculogenic and is one of the patient profiles where shock waves may offer a benefit. In many cases, taking care of lifestyle and checking other health factors (blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, weight) is part of the overall treatment plan for erectile dysfunction.
If you want to delve deeper into how male sexual health changes throughout life and what habits help protect erections, also check out our article on male sexual health.
What are low intensity shock waves?
Shock waves are micro pulses of mechanical energy applied to the penis and perineum by means of a specialized medical device. Their purpose is to stimulate vascular regeneration and improve circulation in the area.
Several clinical studies have observed that these waves can:
- Promote the formation of new blood vessels.
- Improve oxygenation of the erectile tissue.
- Increase blood flow during erection.
- Enhance the response to oral medication when it is insufficient.
The clinical experience of Dr. Alejandro Silva Garretón, who has published results on this technique, agrees with these findings, especially in patients with mild or moderate erectile dysfunction.
During treatment
The sessions are performed on an outpatient basis and the procedure is simple:
- No anesthesia is used.
- No pain.
- The session lasts approximately 20-30 minutes.
- The patient can resume normal activity immediately.
What benefits can the patient notice?
The most common findings in correctly selected patients are:
- Firmer and longer lasting erections.
- Easier to initiate erection.
- Better response to oral drugs, being able to reduce the dose in some cases.
- In men on medication that was no longer working well, it can restore response.
- In some cases, greater sexual spontaneity, as they are less dependent on pills.
It is important to note that this is not a "miracle" treatment, nor does it always replace medication, but it can improve the vascular basis of the problem.
Therefore, shock waves are usually integrated into an overall treatment plan, which may include oral medication, lifestyle changes, psychological approach when necessary and even other advanced therapies if the situation requires it.
Who are good candidates for this treatment?
Scientific evidence and clinical experience indicate that the best results are obtained in:
- Men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction, especially of vascular origin.
- Patients who notice that the medication helps, but not enough.
- Men seeking a non-invasive option with no significant adverse effects.
- Patients with reasonably controlled cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol).
It can also be considered in men who wish to reduce the use of pills, always with medical supervision. In some cases, it combines very well with sex therapy and psychological accompaniment, especially when there is performance anxiety or emotional impact associated with erectile dysfunction; for this we have our team of psychology and therapy for men.
In which cases is it not the best option?
Shock waves are not usually effective when:
- Erectile dysfunction is severe and there is significant vascular damage.
- There are relevant nerve injuries (e.g., after extensive pelvic surgery or complex pudendal nerve pictures).
- The patient presents with untreated hypogonadism.
- Difficulty with erection has a mainly psychological origin.
In these cases, it may be a priority to evaluate other options: from the correction of hormonal alterations (as in the context of andropause or hormonal changes in men) to local treatments or even penile implants, depending on each case.
When will the results be noticeable?
Many patients begin to notice changes between the third and fourth session, although the response may vary. In some cases the improvement is progressive and consolidates weeks after the end of the cycle.
Common changes after shock waves
- Easier to achieve erection.
- Sensation of increased rigidity during penetration.
- Best response to erection tablets.
- More security and confidence in the sexual relationship.
The effects are usually maintained for several months and, in some cases, a booster cycle can be considered depending on the patient's evolution and objectives.
Why to undergo treatment at GUA Urology and Andrology?
At GUA Urology and Andrology we have extensive experience in the comprehensive management of erectile dysfunction and in the use of low intensity shock waves as part of the therapeutic approach.
- Complete evaluation of the cause of erectile dysfunction.
- Experience in shock waves and advanced treatments.
- Multidisciplinary approach: urology, andrology, psychology and physiotherapy.
- Maximum privacy and personalized accompaniment.
If you want to read more about common myths surrounding men's sexual health, we recommend our article on myths about men's sexual health.
Conclusion: when to value shock waves
Low intensity shock waves represent a safe and effective therapeutic option for many men with erectile dysfunction of vascular origin. They are not a universal substitute, but an alternative that can improve erectile function, enhance medication or even reduce the need for medication.
The decision to apply them should be made after an individualized assessment, taking into account the clinical history, the probable causes of the problem, the risk factors and the patient's expectations.
If you show the first symptoms of erectile dysfunction, this is usually the ideal time to consult him: the sooner action is taken, the better the results are likely to be.
Make an appointment today
If you are considering shock waves or want to evaluate other options, GUA Urology and Andrology offers you a comprehensive and confidential assessment in Gran Canaria.
"Taking care of your sexual health is taking care of you. We are here to help you."
Frequently asked questions about vasectomy
Do shock waves definitively cure erectile dysfunction?
Shock waves are not usually considered a "definitive cure", but they can improve the vascular base of the penis and promote firmer erections in men with mild or moderate erectile dysfunction. Their effect can be maintained for several months, and in some cases booster cycles are performed.
Do shock waves hurt or produce side effects?
No. The treatment is painless and is performed without anesthesia. Most patients have no side effects and can resume their daily activities immediately after each session.
How many sessions are needed to notice results?
Most men perceive improvement between the third and fourth session, although the response may vary. A typical cycle includes 6 to 12 sessions, depending on the medical evaluation.
Do shock waves replace erection tablets?
They can improve the body's response, but they do not always replace medication. In many patients, they allow reducing doses or recovering drug efficacy. In other cases, they remain complementary.
Who are the best candidates for this treatment?
Mainly men with erectile dysfunction of mild or moderate vascular origin, especially when medication is partially working. It is also useful for those seeking a non-invasive option without relevant adverse effects.
In which cases do shock waves not work?
They are not usually effective in severe erectile dysfunction, important nerve lesions, untreated hypogonadism or when the origin is mainly psychological. In these cases, other therapeutic alternatives are considered.
