Tired of pills and awkward conversations about ED? Electric wave therapy is turning heads in men’s health. Using targeted shockwaves, it aims to improve blood flow to the penis and restore function—without drugs, injections, or surgery. We break down how it works, what to expect, and who could benefit.
WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
 FEATURED EXPERTPROFESSOR DR CHRISTOPHER HO CHEE KONG Consultant Urologist School of Medicine Taylor’s University |
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a generally safe form of therapy with only a few reported side effects. It is usually performed on people with conditions of the bones and muscles.
As of late, this therapy is available in several countries, including Malaysia, for men that experience performance issues in the bedroom.
HOW ESWT WORKS
Studies have shown that ESWT is able to improve erection within 1 to 3 months.
- “ESWT delivers acoustic waves to the tissues in the penis,” Professor Dr Ho Chee Kong explains.
- These waves stimulate the release of chemicals such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from the penile tissues.
- These chemicals stimulate new blood vessels formation through a process called angiogenesis. This will lead to better blood flow in the penis.
DOES IT ALSO INCREASE THE SIZE OF THE PENIS?
No, it doesn’t.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT LIKE?
Prof Ho reveals that each session of ESWT will typically take about 30 minutes. It’s typically painless, so no anaesthesia or painkiller will be necessary.
- The patient lies down on the bed, face up in a supine position.
- Gel is applied onto his penis.
- An ultrasound probe is placed on the penis to deliver acoustic waves to the organ.
Professor Dr Ho reveals that one can usually see results of the treatment after 6 to 8 sessions.
HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS LAST?
“The results last about 9 to 12 months,” Professor Dr Ho points out.
Hence, one will likely need to go for periodic ESWT sessions to maintain his improved erection.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
“There is hardly any side effect as the energy of the acoustic waves (ultrasound) is very low,” Professor Dr Ho shares.
The man’s penis will appear and function normally after going for ESWT.
Professor Dr Ho points out, however, that people on anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications should take caution and consult their doctor as to whether ESWT is suitable and safe for them.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE
While ESWT appears to be a promising treatment of erectile dysfunction, Professor Dr Ho reminds us that it is still being researched upon and is considered an experimental treatment.
At the time of writing, no health professional bodies have approved ESWT for treatment of erectile dysfunction.
“You should discuss ESWT further with your doctor to find out whether you can benefit from it,” Professor Dr Ho advises us.
| This article is part of our series on tips and advice on men’s health, sex life, and fertility. |
