Blood Tests for Erectile Dysfunction
Discover how blood tests for ED identify underlying causes such as low testosterone, high cholesterol, abnormal PSA levels, and reduced platelet counts. These markers directly affect blood flow, hormone balance, prostate health, and tissue repair, all essential for natural erectile function.
At Shockwave Clinic, reviewing a patient’s blood results allows us to detect medical conditions that may prevent or limit treatment success. This safeguards our patients and ensures that any risk factors are identified early.
We often say, “The blood never lies.”
When testosterone levels are optimised, cholesterol is controlled, PSA levels are stable, and platelet counts are adequate, the Shockwave Erectile Dysfunction treatment protocol has a significantly higher chance of delivering strong, long-lasting results.
Medical screening improves shockwave therapy outcomes, reduces risk, and creates the right internal environment for erectile restoration.
Q & A
Yes. Low testosterone is a common contributor to erectile dysfunction. Testosterone plays a key role in libido, nitric oxide production, and penile blood flow. When testosterone levels drop, many men experience reduced erection quality, low sex drive, fatigue, and slower tissue recovery. Correcting low testosterone can significantly improve ED treatment outcomes, especially when combined with focused shockwave therapy.
Why is cholesterol linked to erectile dysfunction?
High cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in blood vessels, reducing circulation to the penis. Because erections depend on healthy blood flow, elevated cholesterol is one of the most common physical causes of ED. Improving cholesterol levels helps restore vascular health and supports natural erectile function.
What does PSA have to do with ED treatment?
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a marker of prostate health. Abnormal PSA levels may indicate inflammation, enlargement, or other prostate conditions that can affect urinary and sexual function. PSA screening helps ensure prostate safety before advanced ED treatments such as PRP or carboxytherapy.
Do I need blood tests before shockwave therapy?
Patients may start focused shockwave therapy (ESWT) without blood testing. However, blood results are required for expanded regenerative protocols such as PRP and carboxytherapy. These treatments involve local anaesthetics and require medical clearance to ensure safety and optimal results.
Can fixing blood markers improve erectile dysfunction?
Yes. Optimising testosterone, cholesterol, PSA, and platelet levels improves circulation, hormone balance, and tissue healing. Addressing these underlying causes increases ED treatment success, reduces risks, and supports long-term erectile recovery.
Why is cholesterol linked to erectile dysfunction?
High cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in blood vessels, reducing circulation to the penis. Because erections depend on healthy blood flow, elevated cholesterol is one of the most common physical causes of ED. Improving cholesterol levels helps restore vascular health and supports natural erectile function.
What does PSA have to do with ED treatment?
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a marker of prostate health. Abnormal PSA levels may indicate inflammation, enlargement, or other prostate conditions that can affect urinary and sexual function. PSA screening helps ensure prostate safety before advanced ED treatments such as PRP or carboxytherapy.
Do I need blood tests before shockwave therapy?
Patients may start focused shockwave therapy (ESWT) without blood testing. However, blood results are required for expanded regenerative protocols such as PRP and carboxytherapy. These treatments involve local anaesthetics and require medical clearance to ensure safety and optimal results.
Can fixing blood markers improve erectile dysfunction?
Yes. Optimising testosterone, cholesterol, PSA, and platelet levels improves circulation, hormone balance, and tissue healing. Addressing these underlying causes increases ED treatment success, reduces risks, and supports long-term erectile recovery.
- Active cancer in the treatment area.
- Pacemaker or implanted electronic device near treatment site.
- Active infection or open wound.
- Severe bleeding disorders or strong blood thinners.
- Very recent surgery in the treatment area.
- Pacemaker or implanted electronic device near treatment site.
- Active infection or open wound.
- Severe bleeding disorders or strong blood thinners.
- Very recent surgery in the treatment area.
If blood tests confirm low testosterone and you experience symptoms such as reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, low motivation, loss of muscle, or poor recovery. Optimising testosterone creates the right internal environment for shockwave therapy to work effectively and supports long-term sexual and physical health.
If you experience low energy, brain fog, slow recovery, chronic fatigue, or reduced performance despite normal hormone levels. NAD⁺ supports cellular energy production and tissue repair, helping improve vitality and enhancing your body’s response to shockwave and regenerative treatments.
We combine a holistic multi modal approach including advanced shockwave, EMTT, traction therapies, patented infrared vacuum therapy, PRP, and Carboxy Co2 therapy with personalised treatment plans. Our approach targets the root causes of ED and PD — restoring blood flow, repairing tissue and improving erection — using science-backed, non-surgical methods tailored to each patient. This non invasive and natural approach is 100% risk free and allows for a longterm drug free ED & PD solution.
Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy (Li-SWT) is a treatment modality that utilises acoustic (sound) waves to target damaged or impaired tissue to encourage the body to create healthier tissue. It also helps stimulate blood vessel growth. Shockwave therapy has been safely used for decades. Today it is being successfully used to treat conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), Peyronie’s Disease, and sometimes male or female pelvic pain.
Shockwave therapy is an alternative to traditional treatments, such as oral medications (prescription), vacuum erection devices, injectable medications, and intra-urethral suppositories.
When treating ED with shockwave therapy, low-intensity shock waves are applied to different treatment zones on the penis and on the perineum. Using targeted high-energy sound waves, Li-ESWT can speed up tissue repair and improve blood flow, nerve regeneration, and cell growth. This helps improve the strength and quality of erections.
When treating ED with shockwave therapy, low-intensity shock waves are applied to different treatment zones on the penis and on the perineum. Using targeted high-energy sound waves, Li-ESWT can speed up tissue repair and improve blood flow, nerve regeneration, and cell growth. This helps improve the strength and quality of erections.
While “shockwave” on the surface may sound unpleasant, patients typically tolerate it well. It applies short, frequent, and high-intensity bursts of energy (in the form of ultrasonic sound waves) into soft tissue. Some patients may experience mild discomfort during or after their procedure.
Medical aid do not cover Shockwave Therapy, and patients should expect to pay out-of-pocket. At Shockwave Clinic, the cost pr treatment is Rand 3600.00 and 6-8 weekly treatments are normally required as the minimal about of treatments to get the full benefit.
Your urologist will discuss your individual situation and help you determine if shockwave therapy is an appropriate treatment option for you.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common sexual disorder affecting more than 1 in 5 men. ED is the inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. While most often associated with older men, ED affects a significant proportion of younger men. When treating ED with shockwave therapy, low-intensity shockwaves are applied to different treatment zones on the penis and on the perineum.
“Erectile dysfunction is a common disorder of men that increases with age and may profoundly affect their quality of life. Low-intensity shock wave therapy has been proven to be effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.
“Erectile dysfunction is a common disorder of men that increases with age and may profoundly affect their quality of life. Low-intensity shock wave therapy has been proven to be effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Peyronie’s disease is a condition that causes bending of the penis. The problem is caused by scar tissue, called plaques, that forms inside the penis. The disease is generally progressive, most men first notice the presence of the disease when they feel thickened areas (plaques) under the skin of the penis. As the disease progresses further, pain may occur with or without an erection as the penis becomes more curved. The condition can make sexual intercouse difficult or impossible. Shockwave therapy directly targets the pain points and breaks down the plaques within the penis.
“We use the DUOLITH® SD1 to treat several andrological conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) and Peyronie’s. The DUOLITH® SD1 is very easy to operate and provides excellent results. Patients experience safel and gentle treatments”
Professor Lars Lund, MD, DMSci, Head of Research Department of Urology Odense University Hospital and University Denmark.
“We use the DUOLITH® SD1 to treat several andrological conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) and Peyronie’s. The DUOLITH® SD1 is very easy to operate and provides excellent results. Patients experience safel and gentle treatments”
Professor Lars Lund, MD, DMSci, Head of Research Department of Urology Odense University Hospital and University Denmark.
Also known aschronic prostatitis, Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)is characterized by pain in the region of the pelvic floor and / or urination problems without evidence of urinary tract infection. Some patients experience erectile dysfunction. CPPS is found in men of any age, with the peak incidence in men aged 35 – 45 years. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is performed using a perineal approach, treating both the prostate and the pelvic floor.
Hard flaccid syndrome is a condition which causes men’s penises to be permanently semi-erect, even if they are not aroused. Erections are typically difficult to achieve, may not be as rigid and men with the condition may find they require more stimulation or arousal than they did before. The condition can be quite painful for those who have it, particularly during ejaculation, urination and erection.
Shockwave therapy for hard flaccid is a treatment that can help treat erection problems associated with the condition and can also relieve pain and repair some of the damage done to the penis.
Shockwave therapy for hard flaccid is a treatment that can help treat erection problems associated with the condition and can also relieve pain and repair some of the damage done to the penis.
Infrared light therapy improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and promotes tissue repair — all of which support better erections and help manage or reverse Peyronie’s disease. It works best as part of a multi-modal treatment plan.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a natural treatment made from your own blood. It involves drawing a small amount of blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets and growth factors, and then injecting it into targeted areas.
In men’s health, PRP is used to:
Because it uses your own blood, PRP is safe, non-toxic, and has no risk of rejection or allergy.
In men’s health, PRP is used to:
- Improve blood flow to the penis.
- Enhance sensitivity and erection quality.
- Support tissue healing in conditions like erectile dysfunction or Peyronie’s disease.
- Stimulate collagen and nerve regeneration.
Because it uses your own blood, PRP is safe, non-toxic, and has no risk of rejection or allergy.
Carboxy CO₂ Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses small amounts of medical-grade carbon dioxide gas (CO₂) injected just below the skin or into tissue. It’s widely used in regenerative medicine, aesthetics, and increasingly in men’s sexual health.
🔍 How It Works:
When CO₂ is introduced under the skin, your body responds by:
Increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the area
Stimulating collagen production
Breaking down scar tissue (especially helpful in Peyronie’s disease)
Activating the body’s natural healing and anti-inflammatory response
🔍 How It Works:
When CO₂ is introduced under the skin, your body responds by:
Increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the area
Stimulating collagen production
Breaking down scar tissue (especially helpful in Peyronie’s disease)
Activating the body’s natural healing and anti-inflammatory response
EMTT (Extracorporeal Magneto-transduction Therapy) is an advanced, non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy magnetic fields to stimulate healing deep within the body — at the cellular level.
Benefits of EMTT in Men’s Health:
Improves blood flow and cellular oxygenation in penile tissue
Aids recovery in erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic pelvic pain
Reduces inflammation and nerve sensitivity
Helps break the cycle of chronic pelvic tension and pain (often linked to CPPS)
EMTT enhances the healing effect of other treatments by energizing cells and improving tissue responsiveness.
Especially effective when treating vascular and nerve-related causes of ED.
Benefits of EMTT in Men’s Health:
Improves blood flow and cellular oxygenation in penile tissue
Aids recovery in erectile dysfunction (ED) and chronic pelvic pain
Reduces inflammation and nerve sensitivity
Helps break the cycle of chronic pelvic tension and pain (often linked to CPPS)
EMTT enhances the healing effect of other treatments by energizing cells and improving tissue responsiveness.
Especially effective when treating vascular and nerve-related causes of ED.
During your consultation we may recommend additional blood tests — especially if you are under 55 — to support optimal results and meet your health goals. These may include (but are not limited to): testosterone, free testosterone, TSH, PSA, urea/creatinine, full blood count, vitamin D, vitamin B12, lipogram, fasting glucose or HbA1c, ALT and AST.
At Shockwave Clinic, we understand how much venous leakage can affect confidence, intimacy, and quality of life. That’s why we’ve designed a gentle, non-invasive treatment program to help restore natural function and support your overall wellbeing.
Our Treatment Approach
Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Encourages new blood vessels to grow and helps improve blood flow to the penis.
Electromagnetic Therapy (EMTT): Boosts cellular activity and improves micro-circulation.
Infrared Vacuum Therapy: Enhances local blood flow while training the veins to close properly during an erection.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections: Uses your own growth factors to repair tissue and support vascular health.
Pelvic Floor (Kegel) Exercises: Strengthens key muscles that help maintain erections.
Lifestyle Support: Guidance on healthy changes such as exercise, weight management, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, and managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
What You Can Expect
We’ll first make sure you’re medically stable and that your medications are well managed.
Treatment usually takes place over 4–6 months with regular sessions.
Because this program is non-invasive, side effects are minimal compared to surgical options.
Results and Outcomes
Many men with mild to moderate venous leakage notice significant improvements in erectile function.
Studies show that around 60–75% of patients who combine therapies (like ESWT, PRP, and lifestyle changes) report better erection quality.
Younger and middle-aged men, or those who catch the condition early, often see the best results.
In severe cases, improvements may be limited, and surgical options might still be necessary.
In Summary
Our 6-month, non-invasive program combines the latest technologies with supportive lifestyle strategies. For about 2 in 3 men, this approach leads to meaningful improvements in erectile function and confidence—especially when started early.
Our Treatment Approach
Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Encourages new blood vessels to grow and helps improve blood flow to the penis.
Electromagnetic Therapy (EMTT): Boosts cellular activity and improves micro-circulation.
Infrared Vacuum Therapy: Enhances local blood flow while training the veins to close properly during an erection.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections: Uses your own growth factors to repair tissue and support vascular health.
Pelvic Floor (Kegel) Exercises: Strengthens key muscles that help maintain erections.
Lifestyle Support: Guidance on healthy changes such as exercise, weight management, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, and managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
What You Can Expect
We’ll first make sure you’re medically stable and that your medications are well managed.
Treatment usually takes place over 4–6 months with regular sessions.
Because this program is non-invasive, side effects are minimal compared to surgical options.
Results and Outcomes
Many men with mild to moderate venous leakage notice significant improvements in erectile function.
Studies show that around 60–75% of patients who combine therapies (like ESWT, PRP, and lifestyle changes) report better erection quality.
Younger and middle-aged men, or those who catch the condition early, often see the best results.
In severe cases, improvements may be limited, and surgical options might still be necessary.
In Summary
Our 6-month, non-invasive program combines the latest technologies with supportive lifestyle strategies. For about 2 in 3 men, this approach leads to meaningful improvements in erectile function and confidence—especially when started early.
Although cucumber–parsley juice isn’t a replacement for medical treatment, it may support sexual health in several ways:
1. Boosts Circulation
Parsley contains nitrates and vitamin K, both of which promote healthy blood vessels and improve circulation — essential for achieving and maintaining erections.
Poor circulation is a key factor in erectile dysfunction, which is why shockwave therapy for ED focuses on restoring blood flow at the tissue level.
2. Protects Blood Vessels from Damage
Antioxidants in parsley and cucumber help protect the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels), supporting nitric oxide production — a molecule essential for erectile performance.
3. Supports Hormonal Balance
Parsley’s apigenin content may aid testosterone regulation, supporting libido, energy, and mood. This natural support can complement medical approaches like hormone optimization or shockwave therapy offered at Shockwave Clinic.
Learn more and recipe
Men who experience mild to moderate erectile difficulties, often related to circulation or age-associated factors, may benefit from our non-invasive wellness programme. While this is more common in men over 40, younger men can also experience changes in performance or confidence due to lifestyle and stress factors.
The wellness benefits of Shockwave Therapy may be experienced for varying periods, depending on individual factors such as circulation, lifestyle, and overall health. While studies suggest that Shockwave Therapy can help support natural tissue recovery and function, outcomes are not guaranteed and can differ from person to person.
Over time, factors such as stress, chronic health conditions, or lifestyle habits can influence performance and may affect how long results are maintained. Regular wellness practices and medical check-ups can support longer-term outcomes.
Over time, factors such as stress, chronic health conditions, or lifestyle habits can influence performance and may affect how long results are maintained. Regular wellness practices and medical check-ups can support longer-term outcomes.
Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive wellness-based approach that supports healthy circulation and tissue vitality. Research suggests it may encourage new micro-vascular growth, which can assist natural blood flow.
Many men who experience age-related changes in performance find that this therapy supports confidence and overall function when combined with balanced lifestyle habits.
Many men who experience age-related changes in performance find that this therapy supports confidence and overall function when combined with balanced lifestyle habits.
Each session lasts approximately 40 to 60 minutes. A small hand-held device is applied to specific points on and around the penile area, delivering gentle acoustic waves that help support circulation and tissue wellness.
The process is non-invasive and generally well tolerated, with most clients describing only mild sensations or warmth. Sessions are performed discreetly and professionally by trained practitioners under the oversight of our consulting medical doctor.
The number of sessions recommended depends on your individual goals and how your body responds to the programme. Before your first appointment, you may be asked to shave the area being treated (for example, the penile region) to ensure optimal comfort and contact. No other preparation is required.
After each session, you can resume normal activities. Occasionally, mild redness or tenderness may occur, but this usually resolves quickly. Clients are encouraged to follow any after-care or lifestyle guidance provided by their practitioner.
The process is non-invasive and generally well tolerated, with most clients describing only mild sensations or warmth. Sessions are performed discreetly and professionally by trained practitioners under the oversight of our consulting medical doctor.
The number of sessions recommended depends on your individual goals and how your body responds to the programme. Before your first appointment, you may be asked to shave the area being treated (for example, the penile region) to ensure optimal comfort and contact. No other preparation is required.
After each session, you can resume normal activities. Occasionally, mild redness or tenderness may occur, but this usually resolves quickly. Clients are encouraged to follow any after-care or lifestyle guidance provided by their practitioner.
Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive, wellness-based approach that is generally well tolerated. However, if you have a heart condition, pacemaker, or other chronic health concern, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider or our consulting doctor before starting any therapy.
Mild, short-term tenderness or redness may occasionally occur in the treated area. These effects are temporary and usually resolve quickly.
Mild, short-term tenderness or redness may occasionally occur in the treated area. These effects are temporary and usually resolve quickly.
Men living with diabetes often experience changes in circulation that can affect sexual performance. Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive, wellness-based approach that may assist by supporting blood flow and tissue vitality.
While some clients with diabetes have reported positive improvements, individual responses vary, and results depend on overall health, lifestyle, and glucose management.
While some clients with diabetes have reported positive improvements, individual responses vary, and results depend on overall health, lifestyle, and glucose management.
Some men who don’t respond as expected to medication choose to explore non-invasive options such as Shockwave Therapy. This approach may assist in supporting natural circulation and tissue responsiveness, which can complement other therapies or lifestyle strategies.
Individual results vary, and outcomes depend on several factors such as overall health, age, and underlying causes. Shockwave Therapy should be viewed as a supportive wellness option rather than a replacement for prescribed medical treatment.
Individual results vary, and outcomes depend on several factors such as overall health, age, and underlying causes. Shockwave Therapy should be viewed as a supportive wellness option rather than a replacement for prescribed medical treatment.
Medication can offer short-term support for erectile function, but some men prefer to explore non-invasive options that focus on circulation and overall wellness. Shockwave Therapy is designed to support natural blood flow and tissue responsiveness, offering a complementary approach that may help maintain results over time.
While most clients tolerate the sessions well, mild temporary tenderness or redness can occasionally occur. The choice between medication and supportive therapies depends on your individual goals, preferences, and medical guidance.
While most clients tolerate the sessions well, mild temporary tenderness or redness can occasionally occur. The choice between medication and supportive therapies depends on your individual goals, preferences, and medical guidance.
To see whether our wellness programme may be suitable for you, please complete our online questionnaire: Erectile Health Check
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This questionnaire is intended to provide an indication of suitability only and does not replace a professional medical consultation or diagnosis.
We recommend a full assessment with your GP, healthcare provider, or our consulting doctor to confirm whether Shockwave Therapy is appropriate for your individual circumstances. If you prefer not to consult your GP, our team can arrange a discreet initial consultation at the clinic.
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This questionnaire is intended to provide an indication of suitability only and does not replace a professional medical consultation or diagnosis.
We recommend a full assessment with your GP, healthcare provider, or our consulting doctor to confirm whether Shockwave Therapy is appropriate for your individual circumstances. If you prefer not to consult your GP, our team can arrange a discreet initial consultation at the clinic.