Tadalafil, commonly known by its brand name Cialis, is a medication primarily prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing men to achieve and maintain erections. However, there’s a common misconception that Tadalafil can also increase the size of the penis permanently. In this article, we will explore the truth behind this notion and provide a comprehensive understanding of Tadalafil’s effects on penile size.

Understanding Tadalafil

Before delving into the question of whether Tadalafil can increase penile size, it’s crucial to grasp how this medication works. Tadalafil works by inhibiting the action of the enzyme PDE5, which is responsible for breaking down a chemical called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP is essential for relaxing the smooth muscles in the penis, allowing blood to flow in and create an erection.

The Effect Of Tadalafil On Erections

Tadalafil is highly effective at treating ED by enhancing the body’s ability to achieve and sustain an erection when sexually aroused. It does not directly influence the size of the penis. Instead, it facilitates the physiological processes that enable a man to attain a fuller and more rigid erection.

Temporary Changes In Size

While Tadalafil itself doesn’t lead to permanent changes in penile size, some individuals might notice a temporary difference. When a person takes Tadalafil, the increased blood flow to the penis can result in a firmer and slightly larger erection compared to when they are not using the medication. This can create the illusion of an increased size, but it is not a long-term effect.

It’s important to note that the size increase is limited to the duration of the medication’s effect, typically up to 36 hours after taking a dose of Tadalafil. Once the drug wears off, the penis returns to its usual size.

The Role Of Psychological Factors

Psychological factors can also play a significant role in the perception of penile size. Men who experience improved sexual performance and confidence when using Tadalafil may feel more satisfied with their erections, which can, in turn, make them perceive their penis as larger.

Addressing Size Concerns

If you are concerned about the size of your penis and it is affecting your self-esteem or sexual performance, it’s important to remember that size is just one aspect of sexual satisfaction. Open communication with your partner and exploring various sexual techniques can have a more substantial impact on overall sexual satisfaction than the physical dimensions of your penis.

It’s also worth considering that many men have insecurities about their penile size, even when there is no medical issue. Seeking support from a healthcare professional or a therapist can help address these concerns and improve your self-confidence.

Penile Enlargement And Tadalafil

Some individuals may seek penile enlargement procedures or treatments alongside Tadalafil use in hopes of achieving a larger penis. These procedures can include surgical interventions, such as penile implants or injections, and non-surgical methods, like vacuum erection devices and penile exercises.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before pursuing any penile enlargement methods, especially when combined with Tadalafil. Combining these treatments without professional guidance can lead to complications and adverse effects.

Penile Enlargement And Tadalafil

For some individuals, dissatisfaction with their penile size may lead them to consider penile enlargement procedures or treatments alongside Tadalafil use, hoping to achieve a more significant enhancement. These options can include both surgical and non-surgical approaches.

Surgical procedures may involve the insertion of penile implants, which can provide an artificial yet reliable means of achieving erections. However, these implants are not intended to increase the size of the penis but rather to assist with achieving and maintaining an erection. Other surgical methods, such as injections or fat transfer, may be explored for cosmetic purposes, but these too carry risks and limitations that should be discussed thoroughly with a qualified medical professional.

Non-surgical methods often involve the use of devices like vacuum erection pumps or specialized exercises aimed at stretching and enlarging the penile tissue. These methods are typically pursued by individuals who desire a non-invasive approach to enhance their penile appearance. However, their effectiveness can vary, and results may not be permanent.

If you have concerns about the size of your penis, it’s advisable to discuss them with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. Remember that sexual satisfaction involves a combination of physical and emotional factors, and there are many ways to enhance your overall sexual experience beyond focusing solely on penile size.

The use of steroids is not uncommon among gym enthusiasts. They use steroids to speed up the process of muscle-building. But, according to some sources, the effects of steroids can have an adverse impact on your reproductive organs. There are many beliefs and claims floating around the internet stating that some types of steroids might affect the male’s sexual function.

As per some studies, some men after consuming steroids may experience a reduction in their sex drive, and the size of their penile and testicles may also become smaller. On the contrary, other sources reveal that steroids can boost the sex drive and make the penile bigger in size by boosting the blood flow in the penile arteries. There is indeed a lot of confusion around the impact of steroids on penile size and sexual function, the lack of research is the cause of this confusion and myths.  

About steroids

Steroids are used by some athletes and bodybuilders as performance-enhancing drugs. These drugs can help in boosting the levels of testosterone in the body. Testosterone is the hormone that is responsible for increasing muscle strength and muscle mass, boosting stamina, and many other functions.

As the body gets used to the artificial testosterone from the steroids, its natural ability to produce testosterone might be affected and as a result, the testes might shrink.  Since there are different types of steroids available out there, the impact they cause might differ among individuals. For some, the impacts are positive while for others it might yield negative results.

Does penile size get affected after using steroids?

According to a website known as trade sexual health, steroids can boost sexual performance by increasing the sex drive or libido of a person. It can help them gain confidence in their sexual performance. On the other hand, they can also cause the weakening of the sex drive and give rise to erection difficulties.

Also, the testes might shrink, and since they are responsible for the production of sperm, the men might develop issues with their fertility. Steroids provide your body with a dose of testosterone. Since the body gets artificial testosterone from steroids, it stops making testosterone.

Testosterone is naturally produced by the testes, but when the body is getting a dose of testosterone externally, the testes stop producing it. This leads to the reduction or shrinkage in the size of the testes.

The size of the penile might not be affected due to the steroids. It remains the same. It becomes bigger and erects only when the blood flow happens inside the penile arteries, otherwise, it mostly remains in its original size, irrespective of steroid usage.  

Contrary to that, some men claim, they do experience an increase in the size of their penile after using steroids. This might happen, as certain types of steroids known as anabolic steroids can increase the volume of blood to the penile, which is why the Penile might appear slightly bigger in size than it usually does during erections.    

Other effects of steroids

Steroids can give rise to side effects such as:

• Male pattern baldness (Alopecia)
• Testicular cancer
• Shrinking of testicles
• Breast enlargement

Conclusion

These are just myths, as there is no extensive study or comprehensive research done yet that can confirm the impacts of steroids on the size of the penile. There are various types of steroids available in the market and certain types might contribute to the shrinking of the penile while others might increase the penile size and help restore sexual confidence.

The effects of steroids may vary from one individual to another. Unless and until there is a study done by a reliable and trustworthy source, the uncertainty around whether steroids affect the size of the penile shall persist. Hence, the insufficiency of data prevents us from arriving at a firm conclusion.

Cialis drugs are prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction problems in men. These pills can treat erection difficulties and restore the erection function. They are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which makes them safe and reliable for use.

These drugs are the most effective solution for ED treatment, as their effects remain active in the body for a prolonged duration, which is up to 36 hours. Many people may rely on these drugs to improve their sexual performance, but their long-term usage can potentiate the risk of adverse effects. Excessive use of these drugs is not safe. So, for how long one can use Cialis safely? 

According to various sources, there is extensive research conducted on men, which revealed that, ideally, men can continue using these pills safely for up to a couple of years. As men were subjected to the research, the use of Cialis for the duration of 2 years did not give rise to any serious side effects.

However, if one plans to use these drugs beyond 24 months, then the risk of some adverse side effects potentiates, as there is a lack of research done, which can raise the speculations around the safety. Using the drug persistently for more than a couple of years may raise concerns around safety.

Therefore, to be on the safer side, it is better to stick to the 2-year plan of using the drug. Unless comprehensive research is done in this regard, the best practice is to stop using it beyond 24 months of persistent usage.  

About Cialis

Cialis drugs are made up of Tadalafil, which is a component that is classified under phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Cialis is specifically designed for treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Men might experience difficulties in getting or sustaining their erections because of a lack of blood flow to their penile. The pill can overcome these difficulties and help men to get stronger erections.  

The manufacturer produces these drugs in the form of pills. They come in four different strengths – 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. The healthcare provider will prescribe an appropriate dose based on the severity. Usually, low-dose pills with strengths of 2.5mg and 5mg can be taken daily. While high doses of pills 10mg and 20mg are not appropriate for regular use. One needs to follow their doctor’s instructions.  

How does Cialis treat ED?

Cialis inhibits the action of PDE5 enzymes, which are present in the endothelial walls of the penile blood vessels. PDE5 enzymes prevent the release of a chemical known as nitric oxide and make the blood vessels turn hard and narrow. As a result, the blood supply to the penile gets hindered and the person may fail to get erections.

Cialis stops PDE action and boosts the release of nitric oxide in the endothelial walls of the blood vessels. Nitric oxide is a vasodilator chemical, which expands the narrowed blood vessels and relieves muscle tensions. The expansion and dilation of the blood vessels allow more blood flow inside the penile. This helps restore the erection function.

The pill is known for its prolonged effectiveness, which lasts for up to 36 hours. It is not appropriate for regular usage. Since its effects last for very long, the pill must not be taken every day, doing so will increase the risk of overdosing. Overconsumption can give rise to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and low blood pressure (Hypotension).

Side effects of Cialis

Cialis pills can produce some common side effects, that may include – headache, nausea, stuffy nose, flushing, upset stomach, back pain, muscle pain, and pain in arms or legs. These symptoms may last for a short time and disappear soon after some time when the effects go away. If the symptoms persist for longer, one must see a doctor.      

These pills might give rise to some rare and uncommon side effects as well. They may include – priapism (prolonged and painful erections lasting beyond 4 hours), severe light-headedness, sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, or change of vision, sudden loss of hearing or ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and chest pain. If any of these symptoms appear, one must immediately seek medical attention. Prompt action for early treatment will reduce the risk of major health damage.    

The lowdown

Researchers claim that Cialis can be used safely for a period of 2 years. Beyond that, the risk of adverse effects might potentiate. There is not much evidence of whether one can safely continue using these pills beyond a couple of years, so sticking to a 2-year regimen is somewhat safe. 

Athletes may consider using Sildenafil drugs to enhance their sports performance. This drug is responsible for causing vasodilation with its effects. It can increase the flow of blood to certain parts of the body, mainly in the penile and lungs. These drugs are primarily used for the treatment of sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction (ED). Healthcare professionals also prescribe these drugs for treating the symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).  

This drug has the ability to increase the blood circulation to certain body parts. Athletes perform intense aerobic activities, which require a constant and persistent circulation of blood in their bodies. The more the blood flow, the better will be the supply of oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body. This is why, they might consider using Sildenafil drugs for having a good performance.

Effects of Sildenafil on athletes  

To perform optimally in sports activities, a person must have a healthy blood flow happening in their body. The effects of sildenafil can boost the blood circulation in the body. Sildenafil is classified under a group of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors chemicals, as per pharmaceutical classification.

PDE5 inhibitor chemicals like sildenafil suppress the action of an enzyme known as PDE5. This enzyme narrows the blood vessels, turns them hard, and restricts the flow of blood through them. This deprives the body parts of adequate oxygen and nutrients due to a lack of blood supply to the region.

Sildenafil, being a PDE5 inhibitor, triggers the release of a chemical called nitric oxide, which is a potent vasodilator. Nitric oxide (NO) expands the blood vessels, relaxes, and dilates them to allow more blood supply inside. The supply of oxygen and nutrients happens due to the dilation of the blood vessels, which can be attributed to sildenafil.  

Moreover, athletes tend to need a consistent supply of oxygen in their bodies, the effects of sildenafil can boost their blood circulation, and, in this way, they get adequate oxygen. Also, some sports activities have to be performed at high altitudes, where the level of oxygen in the atmosphere is very low. This can give rise to some symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and chest pain. Low oxygen can make it extremely difficult for them to perform any sport. That is when sildenafil drug can be beneficial.    

Is Sildenafil safe for athletes?

According to a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, Sildenafil can be helpful for athletes performing sports in high-altitude regions. Being physically active in such oxygen oxygen-deprived atmosphere can make it difficult to perform aerobic activities and sports for longer durations. Sildenafil can boost blood circulation and make it easier for them to continue playing the sport for a longer time.

Most importantly, it is necessary to become aware of the side effects of sildenafil. This drug can produce some mild effects such as headache, lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, fainting, blurred vision, diarrhea, flushing, upset stomach, etc. Besides, it can also lead to serious side effects in some people. Therefore, before using sildenafil to enhance your performance in high-altitude regions or high elevations, you need to consult your healthcare provider, otherwise, the side effects can affect your performance by adversely affecting your health.     

Final word

Sildenafil is a Vasodilator drug, which expands the blood vessels to accommodate more blood flow and circulate the blood throughout the body. Various studies have concluded that these drugs can be helpful in eliminating the difficulties of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) experienced by individuals who play sports extensively in high-elevation and high-altitude regions.  

Alongside, the effects of this drug can also increase their exercise capacity. Thus, sildenafil can offer aerobic advantage to sportsmen and boost their performance in sports activities. However, it is necessary to ask the healthcare provider before using these drugs, as the effects of them might not be the same in every individual, as some may experience performance enhancements while some might fail to perform their best due to the side effects of the drug.

Shock wave therapy, also called acoustic wave therapy is a treatment that can improve the erection function of men who are experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED) issues. This therapy is a non-invasive or non-surgical type of treatment that can revive the function of impaired erectile function in males.   

What is ED?  

Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence are sexual difficulties that are faced by men, which affect their ability to get and sustain stronger erections. The root cause of erection difficulties is the insufficiency of blood supply to the penile. The arteries of the penile turn narrow and hard, which prevents the blood flow inside.

Treatments such as medications can increase the blood flow inside the penile arteries. Similarly, shock wave therapy can also boost the blood flow to the penile. The blood flow increases when the arteries of the penile expand and dilate to allow more blood inside.  

What is Shock wave therapy?

As per various sources, shock wave therapy for ED is an advanced form of treatment and it has not been recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yet. It is performed only by a licensed medical practitioner or clinician who has expertise in it. The therapy involves the emission of low-intensity shock waves into the penile skin. These waves penetrate the penile skin and reach deep within the tissues and cells.    

As the waves get inside the erectile tissue, known as corpora cavernosum, they trigger tissue regeneration, growth, and development of new blood vessels, and expansion of narrowed blood vessels to allow more blood flow inside the penile.

The clinician will conduct this therapy with the help of a device that is shaped like a wand. The device is held for up to 15 minutes around the penile. The clinician will move the wand from one region to another, to cover the entire surface of the penile. The stimulation of tissue regeneration, growth of new blood vessels, and vasodilation happens when the penile receives the waves evenly in all regions.

The waves activate the physiological as well as the psychological processes inside the body. It can obtain great results for those having mild to moderate degrees of sexual difficulties. Those having severe forms of erectile dysfunction may not get the desired results.

ED treatment with Shock wave therapy

The device generates low-intensity pulses and when it is placed on the surface of the penile, the waves enter the penile and begin various physiological and chemical processes. There were various studies done by the researchers. They concluded that the waves can potentially trigger some common types of processes inside the penile organ, which are as follows:  

• Neovascularization – Generally, this process stimulates the formation of new blood vessels in the penile. When new blood vessels grow inside the penile, there will be more blood flow happening inside. These newly formed blood vessels will engorge the penile with more blood supply, which can be beneficial for restoring the erection function. As a result, the erections will be firmer and long-lasting.    
• Tissue regeneration – The waves reach deep inside the cells and stimulate cell regeneration. The cells and tissues thus experience rapid growth and transformation. New capillaries are formed inside, which improves the function of erectile tissue, that is, corpora cavernosa. The therapy has a kind of healing effect on the tissues.
•  Dilation of the blood vessels – The waves can encourage biochemical processes in the endothelial walls of the blood vessels. This causes the release of a vasodilator chemical, known as nitric oxide (NO), in the endothelial walls. This chemical is responsible for maintaining the health of the blood vessels and keeping them expanded and relaxed to allow blood flow inside the penile. As NO is released, it restores the health of the blood vessels, which reinforces the erectile response.  

How safe is Shock wave therapy?

Various studies have revealed that this is a type of painless and no-side-effects treatment for ED. However, despite many studies, one cannot rest assured that this treatment is completely safe. It is not yet recognized by the FDA for the treatment of ED, which prevents one from being sure of its safety.

FDA has approved alternative options such as medications including Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Avanafil (Stendra), and Vardenafil (Levitra). These drugs work by conducting vasodilation in the penile, which boosts the flow of blood inside.

Still, if one wishes to go for shock wave therapy then it is necessary to get it done from only certified and highly qualified medical professionals.  

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects millions of men worldwide. While ED can have various causes, one of the prominent underlying factors is vasculogenic ED. This condition occurs when there is a disruption in the blood flow to the penis, making it difficult for a man to achieve or maintain an erection. In this article, we will delve into the details of vasculogenic ED, its causes, risk factors, and available treatment options.

Understanding Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction

Vasculogenic ED primarily involves the impairment of blood vessels and the circulatory system responsible for delivering an adequate blood supply to the penis. This process is essential for the physiological response of an erection. When the blood vessels in the pelvic region are unable to dilate and allow sufficient blood flow into the erectile tissue, it results in difficulty achieving or sustaining an erection.

Causes Of Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction

• Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries become narrow and stiff due to the accumulation of fatty deposits, known as plaque. When this happens in the arteries that supply blood to the penis, it can hinder blood flow, leading to ED.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can damage the blood vessels over time, reducing their ability to relax and dilate properly. This makes it challenging for blood to flow into the penis, resulting in ED.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels throughout the body, including those involved in erections. Diabetic neuropathy and endothelial dysfunction can contribute to vasculogenic ED in individuals with diabetes.
• Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for vasculogenic ED. The harmful chemicals in tobacco can damage blood vessels, impairing their ability to deliver sufficient blood to the penis.
• Obesity: Obesity is associated with a higher risk of developing ED. Excess body fat can lead to inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which can damage blood vessels and contribute to vasculogenic ED.
• Aging: As men age, the blood vessels tend to become less flexible and more prone to atherosclerosis, which can increase the likelihood of vasculogenic ED.
• Other Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, and metabolic syndrome, can also contribute to vasculogenic ED.
• Medications: Some medications, like certain antihypertensive drugs, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, can have side effects that impact blood flow and contribute to ED.

Risk Factors For Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction

In addition to the specific causes mentioned above, there are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing vasculogenic ED:

• Family History: A family history of cardiovascular disease or ED may increase the risk of vasculogenic ED.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can lead to obesity and other health problems that contribute to vasculogenic ED.
• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate ED or be contributing factors.
• Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption and substance abuse can damage blood vessels and exacerbate ED.
• Poor Diet: A diet high in saturated fats, sugar, and processed foods can contribute to obesity and vascular problems.

Treatment Options For Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction

The good news is that vasculogenic ED is treatable, and there are several options available to help men regain their sexual function:

• Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is often the first step in managing vasculogenic ED. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol consumption.
• Medications: Medications like phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, including sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra), can help improve blood flow to the penis and facilitate erections.
• Vacuum Erection Devices (VEDs): These devices create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the erectile tissue and facilitating an erection. They can be an effective option for some men.
• Penile Injections: Intracavernosal injections involve injecting medication directly into the penis to induce an erection. This method can be highly effective but may not be suitable for all men.
• Penile Implants: Surgical options like penile implants are available for men who do not respond to other treatments. These implants can be either inflatable or semi-rigid and are placed inside the penis to allow for manual or automatic erections.
• Lifestyle Counseling: Counseling or therapy can help address psychological factors that may be contributing to ED, such as anxiety or relationship issues.

Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice that helps to strike a balance between the mind and body. It involves a combination of physical postures, breathing exercises, and deep meditative exercises, which bring calmness and harmony. It causes complete relaxation and can be beneficial for men experiencing sexual difficulties such as erectile dysfunction.   

The primary cause of erectile dysfunction is a lack of blood flow to the reproductive organs. This can stem from underlying physiological factors or psychological factors. However, doing some yoga poses on a regular basis can boost the blood flow to the reproductive organs and improve erection function.   

According to various sources, the best yoga poses that can restore the erection function are:

1. Uttanasana

Also known as Standing Forward Fold or Bend, this is a powerful pose that promotes flexibility, relaxes the pelvic floor muscles, boosts blood flow to the pelvic region, helps attain mindfulness, and relieves anxiety. Also, men having issues with fertility can benefit a lot from this pose.  

Directions

• Stand on the floor with your feet hip-width apart. Place your hands on your hips.
• Now slowly inhale and as you exhale, start bending your torso forward hinging from your hips, not the lower back.
• Bring your hands on the floor in front of your feet and your fingers must touch the ground.
• Now, inhale deeply and feel your chest expanding.
• Try to keep your knees straight.
• Stay in this position for a few seconds, between 30 seconds to a minute and as you inhale, lift your torso a little up and feel the stretch. Exhale and feel relaxed. 
• Inhale and release the pose by bending your knees a bit, keeping the back straight bringing the arms up and gently lifting your torso back to standing position.

2. Baddha konasana

Also known as Butterfly pose or Bound Angle pose. This posture stretches the organs of the pelvic region. It works on the groin, inner thighs, pelvic organs such as bladder, prostate gland, urethra, penile, etc. It can stimulate the blood flow in this region, which can restore the erection function.  

Directions

• This pose requires you to sit down. Extend your legs in front of you and now bend your knees and move your feet closer to your pelvis.
• Relax your knees and let them rest on either side.
• Grab your feet with your hands and keep your back straight.
• Now start flapping your thighs and knees repeatedly like butterfly wings.
• Keep doing this exercise for a few minutes.

3. Janu Sirsasana

Also called Head-to-knee pose. This pose stretches your pelvic floor muscles and increases their relaxation, which triggers blood circulation in the reproductive organs. Besides, it is also a stress reliever pose. 

Directions

• This pose has to be performed in the sitting position.
• You have to sit down and stretch your legs straight in front of you.
• Bring your one foot to the pelvis by bending your knee. One leg must remain stretched out while another is folded.
•  Now, inhale and raise both of your hands, and as you exhale, start bending forward. Try to touch your chin to the knee, bring your hands towards your foot, and clasp your fingers around it.
• Stay in this position for around 1 to 3 minutes and release.

There are many other poses that focus on relaxing your pelvic floor muscles and increasing the blood flow to the penile. Erectile dysfunction is a very common problem among men. Its symptoms can be alleviated with regular yoga practice. Abundant blood flow is crucial for the optimal health of your reproductive organs. These poses increase blood flow and boost your libido or sex drive which improves your sexual performance. It also overcomes erectile difficulties and makes it easier for men to get and maintain harder erections.

Apart from that, lack of blood flow to the reproductive organs can affect the health of semen. It can also give rise to premature ejaculation in men. This can impact their fertility. They may fail to conceive. But when they do yoga regularly, the health of their reproductive organs remains in an optimal state. Their sexual function improves, and their fertility issues also go away.

Lastly, those experiencing erection difficulties because of psychological reasons experience complete relaxation after performing yoga, as diverts it the mind and helps get rid of mental health issues that interfere with sexual function.   

Acoustic wave therapy also known as shockwave therapy can be helpful in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence issues in men. This therapy basically involves a low-intensity shockwave exposure given to the penile that can restore the erection function. According to the National Institutes of Health, shockwave therapy can be effective for men experiencing difficulties in getting or maintaining erections.  

About acoustic wave therapy

According to various sources on the web, acoustic wave therapy is a low-intensity shockwave therapy that utilizes sound waves that penetrate the skin and tissues of the penile and targets the root cause of erectile dysfunction. The waves enter deep inside and stimulate the erectile tissues called corpora cavernosum. It catalyzes physiological as well as chemical processes.

The reason men experience erectile dysfunction is the lack of blood flow to the penile. This therapy boosts the blood flow to the penile by drawing the blood into the blood vessels of the penile. The narrowed blood vessels widen and allow more blood inside. The penile gets engorged with the blood and the blood gets trapped inside with high pressure, and thus, it triggers stronger erections.

How does acoustic wave therapy improve erection function?

The penile is exposed to low-intensity shockwaves. The medical practitioner uses a wand-like device to administer shockwaves to the penile. The device probe is placed around the different areas of the penile for a few minutes. The device emits gentle pulses to the penile. Many studies have concluded that these pulses may restore the erection function by conducting three operations that include:

1. Vasodilation – The reason for the lack of blood supply through the penile is the narrowing of the blood vessels, which prevents the blood supply to the penile. This therapy helps in relieving the strains of the blood vessels and causes relaxation. The gentle pulses compel them to expand their passages and allow blood to flow inside. As the blood vessels gain their health, the erection function becomes easy.
2. Neovascularization – This technique can stimulate the formation of new blood vessels in the penile. The shockwave pulses penetrate inside the skin and deep into the tissues. It facilitates the new growth and development of blood vessels. In this way, there will be newly formed blood vessels in the penile, which will circulate more blood into the penile and help men to get stronger erections.
3. Tissue regeneration and remodelling – There needs to be more studies and research done to justify these claims. However, as per some studies, the effects of the pulses can facilitate the rapid growth and multiplication of the cells and trigger the regeneration of the erectile tissues. It helps in healing the portions of the tissues that were damaged. The tissues go back to their normal and healthy state.

Is acoustic wave therapy effective for ED?

Many researchers have concluded that this technique works for men having erectile dysfunction and noted that it is safe and does not have any significant side effects. Men who got this therapy showed improvement in their ability to get and sustain erect penile. The therapy reduces the symptoms and makes it easier to get and sustain stronger erections.

Those having mild to moderate degrees of impotence issues were able to restore their erectile function in a healthy state. Those experiencing severe forms of erectile dysfunction may or may not get the best results. Although researchers claim that this technique does not produce any side effects and is generally a harmless way to improve the erection function, more such studies and research need to be conducted to consolidate these claims.   

Is acoustic wave therapy for ED safe?

There have been encouraging reviews regarding this therapeutic technique, but one cannot be completely sure about its efficacy. This technique is still new and there needs to be in-depth research done covering its effectiveness, safety, side effects, etc.

Most importantly, acoustic wave therapy is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used as a remedy for erectile dysfunction problems in men. FDA has approved alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction, which include medications such as Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Avanafil, and Stendra. They do cause some mild side effects.

Lastly, only a licensed medical professional with expertise and professional training can perform acoustic wave therapy for erectile dysfunction. If other techniques fail to work, then you might consider this therapy. For that, you must see a licensed medical professional only. 

Generally, shock wave therapy is a pill-free option that can be helpful for treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have concluded that this treatment technique can improve the erection function in men who are experiencing difficulties in getting or sustaining erections. It stimulates blood flow inside the penile, which is fundamental to stronger erections.  

What is shockwave therapy?

According to the Healthline website, shockwave therapy is a low-intensity, non-invasive type of therapy that is primarily used for the healing of broken bones, injured ligaments, and injured tendons. It can also speed up the recovery of deep wounds. With the help of targeted high-intensity sound wave therapy can accelerate cellular growth and tissue repair.   

Moreover, men with erectile dysfunction fail to get or sustain erections. This happens because of the lack of blood flow to the penile arteries. To become erect, the penile must receive more blood flow. Furthermore, some enzymatic actions lead to the narrowing and contraction of the blood vessels of the penile, which hinders blood flow.

However, the blood flow to the penile can be increased with shockwave therapy. This therapy can be as effective as drugs such as Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), etc. It directs the blood to the penile arteries and helps restore the erection function.

How does shockwave therapy treat ED?

To get this therapy, you have to visit a healthcare provider who specializes in this treatment. The therapy will be conducted with the help of a wand-like device that will be placed on different areas of your penile. The device will be moved around the penile region for 15 to 20 minutes.  

The wand emits gentle pulses, which will draw more blood inside the penile blood vessels. At the same time, the process of tissue regeneration also happens inside the penile. The combination of these two processes will boost the flow of blood inside the blood vessels of the penile, restore the erection function, and help men get stronger erections.

Is shockwave therapy safe for ED?

For the vast majority, shockwave therapy is generally considered to be safe. It has not acquired approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, but still, various studies have revealed that this technique is harmless and does not cause significant side effects. In addition, it is a non-invasive type of therapy, which does not involve any surgical procedures, which makes it a preferable option.  

This treatment technique can be clubbed with some other treatment such as ED medications. Their combination can yield the desired results, as it can boost the action and effectiveness of ED medications, which relax the penile blood vessels by causing vasodilation and increase the blood supply to the penile.

Side effects of shockwave therapy

Since it is a type of non-invasion procedure, it is painless for most men. It is still a new type of ED treatment, which requires strong medical support and evidence. It might appear to be safe because of the claims of various researchers, but there needs to be more research done in this regard, which will be helpful in identifying the side effects, effectiveness, duration, and complications.   

According to the Medica News Today website, shockwave therapy can potentiate the risk of side effects, which include:

• Bruises on the penile
• Infection on penile skin
• Painful erections
• Blood in urine

Talk to your healthcare provider

If you have already tried various other methods of improving your erection difficulties but failed, then you may think about getting shockwave therapy. For that, you must talk to your healthcare provider and get to know about how the therapy is performed, its effectiveness, precautions, safety measures, dangers, side effects, cost of therapy, etc.   

The best thing about this therapy is its non-invasive treatment. Although it might not have been approved by the FDA despite various encouraging claims made by various researchers after many studies, this therapy has worked for many. However, that does make it completely safe though. The effects of this therapy may differ from one individual to another. Therefore, effectiveness and safety are not guaranteed when it comes to this therapy. 

Alternative methods for ED treatment

• ED medications such as Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil, Avanafil, etc.
• Vacuum devices or penile pumps.
• ED rings.
• Surgical implants.