Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Shockwave therapy for ED is an advanced non-surgical treatment that uses focused sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis and stimulate tissue repair.
Advanced ED treatment for naturally restoring erectile function
Approximately 4.3 million (about one in five) men in the UK experience erectile dysfunction (ED). It’s a common disorder affecting men of all ages and can be a cause of significant embarrassment, stress and depression.
At The Urology Partnership we offer men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction a highly-advanced, non-invasive, safe and effective ED treatment. Helping them to improve their erections and restore sexual confidence.
Low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) is unlike ED medications or penis pumps that only provide temporary relief. Instead this shockwave therapy aims to address the underlying physical causes of ED, and naturally restore erectile function by increasing blood flow and tension in the area.
We deliver this using STORZ MEDICAL’s DUOLITH® SD1 T-TOP »ultra« shock wave therapy system, which is capable of highly accurate and focused treatment to deep-lying areas.
Making it the ideal therapy for patients who:
- Want a longer lasting solution to erectile dysfunction.
- Prefer to avoid surgery.
- Don’t respond well to ED medication.
- Aren’t satisfied with the results of traditional ED treatments.
- Want a regenerative approach to treating ED.
If you’re interested in shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction at The Urology Partnership, please contact our clinic on 0118 920 7040.
How low-intensity shockwave therapy works
Shockwave therapy is a sophisticated ED treatment which harnesses the body’s natural regenerative capabilities.
It works by:
- Delivering short pulses of low-intensity focused shockwaves to different treatment zones on the penis and on the perineum via a hand-held device.
- These shockwaves can help form new blood vessels (angiogenesis), widen blood vessels and potentially stimulate stem cell recruitment that promotes tissue regeneration.
- As a result, this can improve blood flow to the penis, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection.
Understandably patients can feel a little cautious about treating this sensitive area. However, Li-ESWT involves minimal discomfort, with no needles or surgery as the procedure is delivered on the surface of the skin.
Generally most men experience a mild tingling sensation in the penis during therapy. If any discomfort is felt the intensity of the shockwaves can be adjusted.
Patients typically need multiple sessions. The number of which will be based on your individual needs and response to the therapy. Your consultant will ensure this is fully discussed with you prior to starting any treatment.
The effectiveness of shockwave therapy for ED
The success and long-term benefits of shockwave therapy for ED is still being studied. However, clinical research to date has shown positive results.
Studies* indicate that a significant percentage of men (up to 65%) experience an improvement in their erection hardness score (EHS) to a sufficient level for penetration (EHS ≥ 3) after undergoing 6 to 12 sessions.
Before starting treatment, it’s important to note results will vary from individual to individual. Outcomes will depend on factors like the underlying cause of your erectile dysfunction and severity of your symptoms.
To help achieve the best possible result, we may also recommend certain lifestyle changes (e.g. quitting smoking, increasing exercise, changing diet) to complement this therapy.
Men with certain health conditions, such as severe vascular diseases or blood clotting disorders, may not be suitable for Li-ESWT. If you’re considering this therapy, we encourage you to discuss your medical history with your consultant to ensure the most suitable treatment is recommended.
Side effects of shockwave therapy for ED
Shockwave therapy for ED is generally considered safe, with any side effects experienced being mild and short-lived.
Common side effects include:
- Mild discomfort or pain during the procedure.
- Temporary redness, bruising or swelling at the treatment site is possible, usually resolving within a few days.
- A brief feeling of numbness in the treated area is also possible.
- Other less common but possible side effects include deeper bruising, infection of the penile skin, blood in the urine, pain during an erection which can make intercourse difficult.
If any of these rarer side effects are experienced you should seek advice from a medical professional.
Private ED shockwave therapy at The Urology Partnership
Mr Shafi Wardak is our highly experienced Consultant Urological Surgeon and Andrologist, specialising in tailored solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction to improve quality of life.
To make an appointment to discuss your health concerns, please call our clinic on 0118 920 7040. Or use the booking form below.
Book your consultation
If you’re ready to schedule your consultation, you may view Mr Shafi Wardak’s availability below and choose a time to suit you. New consultations are available at our standard rates.
Shockwave treatment packages are available from £2,000 for 6 sessions or £3,000 for 12 sessions.
Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) FAQs
Treatment typically requires between 6 to 12 sessions. The number needed is usually dependent on your individual case and response to treatment.
For most men, suffering with mild to moderate ED, a typical treatment plan requires six sessions, over a three week period (two sessions per week).
Each session lasts approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Li-ESWT is generally well-tolerated by most patients, with most men experiencing slight pressure and a tingling sensation in the penis during the procedure.
If pain or undue discomfort is felt, the shockwave intensity can be adjusted.
Patients can usually expect to see results fairly quickly. Noticeable change often occurs within 3 weeks of treatment starting.
How long the results of shockwave therapy lasts depends on the underlying cause of your erectile dysfunction, and whether this is tackled alongside the therapy.
For example, losing weight, changing to a healthy diet and exercising more can all help contribute to improved and longer lasting outcomes.
Failing to tackle these can result in problems arising again if blood flow to the penis is restricted in the future.
This may lead to the need for maintenance sessions after completion of the initial course of treatment to sustain the benefits over the longer term.
Shockwave therapy is suitable for men who:
- Have mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.
- Don’t respond well to ED medication or aren’t satisfied with the results.
- Are looking for a regenerative approach to treating ED.
- Prefer to avoid invasive procedures like surgery or injections.
- Wish to avoid treatments requiring anaesthesia.
Shockwave therapy is not suitable for men who:
- Have severe erectile dysfunction.
- Have certain health conditions such as severe vascular diseases or blood clotting disorders.
Before undertaking treatment it’s important to discuss your medical history with your consultant to ensure the most suitable course of therapy is recommended.
Next Steps
Our Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Specialists
Get fast access to leading specialists for the swift diagnosis and treatment of urological conditions in a private clinic environment.
If you would like more information or wish to arrange a consultation with one of our specialist consultant urological surgeons then please either Call 0118 920 7040 or complete the form below.
Insured patients
Contact your GP and ask for a referral to the Urology Partnership.
All consultations, investigations and treatments are covered by major insurance companies (depending on policy).
Funding your own treatment
Self-funding initial consultation fee is £250. Follow up fees are £175.
Consultation charges are exclusive of any tests and other investigations that the consultant may wish to carry out.