Erectile Dysfunction: Gain confidence with peak sexual health

Shockwave therapy has become one of the most talked-about non-invasive treatments for men dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED), chronic pain, and sports-related injuries. Shockwave therapy’s ability to improve blood flow, accelerate healing, and restore function without surgery  and with minimal downtime has made it increasingly popular among men looking for long-term results.

But before men start treatment, many are left wondering: will shockwave therapy be covered by insurance?

The short answer is that it depends on your condition, provider, and insurance plan. In this guide, we’ll explain when insurance may cover shockwave therapy, when it typically does not, and why choosing a direct-pay clinic like Gameday Men’s Health can be beneficial for many by cutting out the insurance company altogether.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as acoustic wave therapy, uses sound waves to stimulate healing and improve blood circulation in specific areas of the body. It was originally developed to help break up kidney stones, but doctors soon discovered it could also help promote soft tissue and enhance blood flow. (1)

For men, shockwave therapy is best known for helping to treat erectile dysfunction. Low-intensity sound waves are applied to the penis to stimulate blood vessel formulation and improve circulation. Better blood flow often leads to stronger, more natural erections over time. (2)

Outside of ED, higher-energy forms of shockwave therapy are used to treat a variety of orthopedic and sports medicine conditions, including: (3)

• Plantar fasciitis
  
  
• Tennis or golfer’s elbow
  
  
• Shoulder or knee tendinopathies
  
  
• Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
   
• Medial tibial stress syndrome 
  
  
• Knee osteoarthritis

It’s important to distinguish between low-intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT) for ED and high-energy shockwave therapy used in orthopedics. While the technology is similar, the energy levels, treatment goals, and insurance eligibility differ.

When Insurance May Cover Shockwave Therapy

Some insurance providers do cover shockwave therapy, but this typically applies to orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions rather than erectile dysfunction.

Insurance coverage may be available if:

• The treatment is prescribed for a medically recognized condition such as plantar fasciitis, tendinopathy, or greater trochanteric pain syndrome
  
  
• The procedure is performed by a licensed medical professional, such as a physical therapist or sports medicine physician
  
  
• The diagnosis meets your insurer’s definition of “medically necessary”
  
  
• There is sufficient clinical research supporting the use of shockwave therapy for your condition
  
  

When these requirements are met, your insurance provider may authorize shockwave therapy under procedural codes for extracorporeal shockwave treatment (ESWT). However, approval varies from one plan to another and won’t be uniform across all patients.

When Insurance Typically Does Not Cover Shockwave Therapy

Most insurance plans do not cover shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction or sexual performance concerns. Clinical studies have shown promising results for men with vascular-related ED. (4)  However, many insurance companies still classify shockwave therapy for this purpose as experimental or investigational. Because it doesn’t meet their criteria for medical necessity, it’s almost always excluded from coverage.

Common reasons insurance companies deny ED-related shockwave therapy include:

• It is not FDA approved specifically for erectile dysfunction
  
  
• It is not listed as a covered benefit in the insurance plan
  
  
• It is considered elective or preventive rather than medically required

Despite this, many men may still choose to move forward with treatment. That’s why working with a trusted men’s health clinic such as Gameday Men’s Health is critical to ensuring you’re still receiving affordable, high-quality treatment even when insurance is not involved.

Why Coverage Can Differ Between Providers

Coverage for shockwave therapy can vary significantly between insurance providers. There is no single policy that applies across the board. Instead, insurers typically determine eligibility based on several factors. These may include the specific condition being treated, FDA approval status for specific uses, the strength of clinical evidence regarding the therapy, and your specific health history.

Because policies differ, it’s best for you or your clinician to contact your insurance provider directly to ask whether shockwave therapy is covered for your specific diagnosis. Providing them with your diagnosis and your provider’s information can help you get a clear answer before you start treatment.

Typical Cost of Shockwave Therapy Without Insurance

For erectile dysfunction, shockwave therapy costs range from $250 to $500 per session, depending on your location and provider.  A full treatment plan usually includes 6 to 12 sessions spaced about a week apart. (5) Bundled pricing or payment plans may be provided to make treatment more accessible.

For orthopedic conditions, pricing depends on the area being treated and how many sessions are required. Some physical therapy or sports medicine clinics include shockwave therapy as part of a broader rehabilitation program.

While paying out of pocket can sound intimidating, many men find the results well worth the cost, especially those who have had long-term issues with ED. The treatment can reduce reliance on medication and improve quality of life.

How to Check if Your Insurance Covers Shockwave Therapy

Before scheduling your first session, contact your insurance provider to confirm whether any portion of your treatment might be reimbursed. To make the process easier:

1. Call the member services number on your insurance card.
   
   
2. Ask specific questions such as:
   
   
   • Does my plan cover extracorporeal shockwave therapy for my condition?
     
     
   • Is preauthorization required?
     
     
   • What documents are needed to prove medical necessity?
     
     
   • Are there in-network providers who offer this service?
     
     
3. Request an estimate of potential out-of-pocket costs.
   
   
4. Get confirmation in writing or note the reference number for your call.

Even if your plan doesn’t cover shockwave therapy, you might be able to use funds from a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to help pay for the treatment.

Why Gameday Men’s Health Does Not Take Insurance

At Gameday Men’s Health, we believe high-quality care shouldn’t be limited by the complexities of insurance. Our clinics don’t accept insurance, so you don’t need to worry about waiting for claims to be processed or approvals or for approval decisions. Instead, you’ll be able to speak directly with your provider about the cost of the treatment before you get started, giving you a complete and clear understanding of the financial commitment needed. 

Cutting out insurance allows you to skip the red tape and avoid waiting long periods for a decision before you can start treatments. Additionally, our competitive pricing shows you the all-in cost without hidden fees or surprise bills.

Our personalized plans provide shockwave or other ED treatments that are right for you, not just what an insurance company deems necessary within your coverage plan. Plus, you can still use HSA or FSA funds to pay for your care if eligible.

Taking the Next Step Toward Better Health

If you’re curious about shockwave therapy and its potential benefits but are concerned about insurance, you’re not alone. Whether or not insurance covers shockwave treatment depends largely on your plan as well as what you intend to use the treatment for. 

Patients seeking shockwave therapy for ED will almost assuredly need to pay out of pocket, although there may be exceptions. 

At Gameday, we cut out the mystery by telling you upfront about the all-in cost upfront. Since we don’t accept insurance, you don’t need to worry about whether or not your treatment will be covered. 

With no insurance barriers and personalized treatment plans, you can take control of your health without waiting for approval or dealing with denials. Our team of specialists will help you determine whether shockwave therapy is right for you and guide you through every step of your treatment journey.

If you’re ready to improve your performance, confidence, and overall health, contact your local Gameday Men’s Health clinic today to schedule a consultation.

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References

1. What is Shockwave Therapy and How Does It Work? 
2. Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) 
3. The evolving use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in managing musculoskeletal and neurological diagnoses 
4. Effectiveness of Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Erectile Dysfunction: An Analysis of Sexual Function and Penile Hardness at Erection: An Umbrella Review 
5. Why Men Are Turning to Penile Shockwave Therapy for Lasting ED Relief

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For millions of men, consuming caffeine is part of a daily ritual. In fact, some research suggests that nearly 80% of the world’s population consumes caffeine daily. (1) 

Whether it’s your morning cup of coffee, an energy drink before work, or a pre-workout shot before the gym, caffeine has become a go-to source of focus and drive. It helps you wake up, power through long days, and perform your best in workouts.

But there’s an ongoing question that men must consider when having their daily drip: Does caffeine intake affect testosterone? Some men worry their daily coffee might lower testosterone, while others believe it can actually enhance energy, strength, and performance by boosting hormone levels.

The truth is more nuanced. Caffeine can affect hormone balance in several ways, depending on how much you consume, how often, and how your body responds.

In this guide, we’ll examine how caffeine works in the body, its potential effects on testosterone levels, and how you can consume caffeine responsibly.

How Caffeine Works in the Body

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, and some supplements. When you consume caffeine, it quickly enters your bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it blocks adenosine,  a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleepiness. By blocking adenosine, caffeine increases alertness and reduces fatigue by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity. (2)

This stimulating effect also triggers the release of adrenaline, a hormone responsible for the body’s “fight or flight” response. Adrenaline boosts energy, sharpens focus, and enhances physical performance. That is one reason caffeine is often used in pre-workout supplements and athletic performance enhancers.

However, this surge in energy also increases cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Cortisol serves essential functions in moderation, but chronically high levels can disrupt testosterone production and recovery. (3) Since chronically elevated cortisol can interfere with testosterone production, consistently elevated cortisol may lead to lower testosterone over time.

Beyond its hormonal effects, caffeine influences other important aspects of health, including sleep, hydration, and nutrient absorption — all of which indirectly affect testosterone balance.

What Research Says About Caffeine and Testosterone

Research indicates that the relationship between caffeine and testosterone varies depending on dosage, timing, and individual physiology.

Some short-term studies suggest caffeine may temporarily boost testosterone levels, especially during or after exercise. For example, one study showed that rugby players who consumed caffeine before resistance training saw a testosterone increase of at least 15%. (4)

However, other studies show that chronic or excessive caffeine consumption could have the opposite effect. Consistently high doses can elevate cortisol, increase anxiety, and interfere with sleep, all of which are factors known to reduce testosterone production long-term. (5)

Several mechanisms may explain these conflicting results, including: 

• Acute stimulation: Caffeine boosts adrenaline and dopamine, which may temporarily influence testosterone levels.
  
  
• Cortisol interference: Prolonged high caffeine intake can raise stress hormone levels that may suppress testosterone levels.
  
  
• Sleep and recovery impact: Caffeine’s stimulating effect may delay sleep onset and lower sleep quality, reducing the nightly testosterone surge that occurs during deep rest.
  
  
• Individual variation: Genetics, metabolism, age, and overall lifestyle strongly influence how caffeine affects hormone balance. (6)

Put simply, caffeine’s effect on testosterone depends on context. A moderate amount taken strategically before a workout may offer a short-term boost, while constant overuse or poor sleep habits may have the opposite effect.

How Caffeine Can Indirectly Influence Testosterone

Even if caffeine does not directly lower testosterone, it can impact hormones that regulate your energy, recovery, and vitality. Here are four ways caffeine indirectly influences testosterone levels and overall hormone health:

Sleep Disruption

Caffeine has a half-life of several hours, meaning it can remain active in your system long after consumption. Because of this, drinking coffee or energy drinks too late in the day can interfere with deep sleep cycles. Since testosterone production peaks during the early morning hours of sleep, disrupted rest can lower overall levels over time.

Stress Response

Caffeine increases cortisol, which can lead to you feeling more alert and focused, but excessive or constant consumption can keep stress hormones elevated. Chronically high cortisol levels can reduce testosterone synthesis in the testes and contribute to fatigue, irritability, and slower recovery. (7)

Exercise Performance

On the positive side, moderate caffeine intake can improve endurance, focus, and strength, all of which can enhance training quality which can therefore improve muscle mass and athletic performance. Regular physical activity is one of the best natural ways to keep hormone levels healthy, and caffeine can enhance workout quality when used wisely.

Hydration and Recovery

Caffeine acts as a mild diuretic, which can increase fluid loss. Staying hydrated and replenishing electrolytes can help offset this effect and maintain optimal recovery.

Does Caffeine Lower Testosterone?

The short answer is that standard caffeine consumption is unlikely to lower testosterone in healthy men. Research consistently shows that drinking a moderate amount of caffeine in a day does not significantly impact hormone levels in most adults. (8)

However, problems may arise when caffeine intake becomes excessive or disrupts other aspects of your health. For instance, regularly consuming large doses of caffeine, such as multiple energy drinks or strong pre-workouts daily may raise cortisol and affect sleep quality. Over time, this can contribute to hormonal imbalance, including reduced testosterone.

The key to maintaining a healthy balance is moderation. Caffeine can be part of a balanced lifestyle if used responsibly. It can even support performance, focus, and fat metabolism when timed properly.  Alternatively, having too much of it, especially in combination with poor sleep or high stress, can have the opposite effect.

How to Use Caffeine Responsibly for Hormone Health

As we’ve discussed, caffeine can be a useful tool for boosting alertness and improving performance when used thoughtfully. Following these practical tips can help you protect your hormone balance while still enjoying caffeinated beverages: 

• Limit caffeine to the early part of the day to avoid disrupting sleep.
  
  
• Keep total daily intake below 400 mg (roughly equivalent to four 8-ounce cups of coffee), the amount recommended by the FDA. (9)
  
  
• Avoid excessive intake of energy drinks or pre-workout supplements that combine caffeine with other stimulants.
  
  
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats that support testosterone production.
  
  

Monitoring how your body responds to caffeine is crucial. Some men may be more sensitive to caffeine and may notice increased anxiety or trouble sleeping even with moderate use. If caffeine consistently causes anxiety, jitteriness, or interferes with sleep, consider reducing your intake or switching to lower-caffeine alternatives such as green tea.

When to Get Your Testosterone Levels Checked

If you’ve been feeling unusually fatigued, experiencing low libido, or noticing a decline in muscle mass or motivation, it might be time to check your testosterone levels. While caffeine can influence how you feel day-to-day, persistent symptoms usually point to a deeper hormonal imbalance.

Getting your testosterone tested provides clarity on whether your levels are within a healthy range or if additional support is needed, such as testosterone replacement therapy. Many men are surprised to learn how lifestyle factors like sleep, nutrition, and stress management influence their hormone profile.

At Gameday Men’s Health, testosterone testing is simple, accurate, and tailored to your specific needs. Our team evaluates your hormone levels through comprehensive blood testing and provides tailored treatment options designed to restore balance and vitality.

Why Choose Gameday Men’s Health

Gameday Men’s Health specializes in helping men optimize their hormones, energy, and overall well-being. Our clinics provide a comfortable, male-focused professional setting where you can get expert guidance on treatments like testosterone replacement therapy, peptide treatments, vitamin injections, and other wellness solutions. 

We take a holistic approach that includes evaluating lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress management, which are all key components of healthy testosterone production. Whether you are dealing with fatigue, low motivation, erectile dysfunction, increased body fat, or  decreased performance, our clinicians can help you identify the root cause and create a plan that fits your goals.

With convenient testing, personalized care, and ongoing support, Gameday Men’s Health is the trusted partner for men who want to feel and perform at their best.

The Bottom Line About Caffeine and Testosterone

When it comes to caffeine and testosterone, it’s essential to remember that moderation and timing are key. When used smartly, caffeine can help boost alertness and performance in the office or at the gym. However, when overused, it can elevate stress hormones and disrupt sleep quality, which can indirectly contribute to hormonal imbalance.

Understanding your personal tolerance, planning caffeine intake strategically, and prioritizing overall health habits can help you enjoy the taste and benefits of caffeine without experiencing negative effects.

If you’re curious about where your testosterone levels stand, or if you’re seeking more information on how lifestyle habits like caffeine intake, diet, and exercise are influencing your health, contact your local Gameday Men’s Health clinic to schedule a consultation. Our expert team can help you take control of your hormone health, boost your energy, and get back to feeling like yourself again.

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References

1. The Consumption of Caffeine-Containing Products to Enhance Sports Performance: An Application of an Extended Model of the Theory of Planned Behavior 
2. Caffeine: What It Is and What It Does 
3. Relationship Between Circulating Cortisol and Testosterone: Influence of Physical Exercise 
4. Dose effect of caffeine on testosterone and cortisol responses to resistance exercise
5. How Caffeine Influences Testosterone and Cortisol Levels 
6. Genetics of caffeine consumption and responses to caffeine 
7. Cortisol and Testosterone: What is the Impact of Stress on Hormones? 
8. The association between caffeine intake and testosterone 
9. Spilling the Beans: How Much Caffeine is Too Much?

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The Most Googled Question About Viagra—Answered

Millions of men rely on Viagra to help improve sexual performance, but one question tends to stand out above the rest: “How often can you take Viagra?” It’s a common concern for men who are navigating erectile dysfunction (ED) for the first time, or for those who want to feel more confident and consistent in the bedroom.

To understand just how widespread this issue is, consider this: Erectile dysfunction affects nealy half of Canadian men over 40. (1) Viagra (also known by its generic name, sildenafil) remains one of the most commonly prescribed treatments. (1) Whether you’ve used it before or are just starting to explore your options, knowing how to take it safely is key to getting results while protecting your health.

How Often Can You Take Viagra? Safe Use, Dosing, & What to Expect

Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection. The active ingredient, sildenafil, relaxes muscles in the walls of blood vessels so more blood can flow where it’s needed during sexual stimulation. (2)  Because of its ability to relax blood vessels, Viagra is also sometimes used to treat pulmonary hypertension. (3)

It’s important to know that Viagra is not intended to cause an automatic erection. It only works when you’re sexually aroused, so you shouldn’t have to worry about awkward or unexpected effects. Most men begin to feel the effects within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it, and the drug typically stays active for about four to six hours. (4)

How Often Can You Take Viagra Safely?

Doctors generally recommend not taking Viagra more than once every 24 hours, regardless of dose, unless otherwise instructed. (5)  Even though the effects wear off in a few hours, sildenafil can remain in your system longer, sometimes as much as 20 hours, and stacking doses too close together may increase the risk of side effects such as headaches, dizziness, rashes, or blurred vision. (6)

Other important factors may impact how often Viagra can be taken. This can include your age (older men may metabolize the drug more slowly), and health conditions such as recent heart attack or heart failure, hyper or hypotension, coronary artery disease, severe kidney or liver disease, or certain blood-related cancers. (7)

Additionally, certain other medications such as nitrates, guanylate cyclase stimulators are should not be taken with Viagra as they can interact dangerously. (8)

What’s the Right Viagra Dosage for You?

Viagra is available in several dosages: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. Most men start with a 50 mg tablet. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on effectiveness and any side effects you may experience.. From there, the dose your doctor may work with you to adjust the dosage based on how well it is working and what side effects—if any—you are experiencing.

Finding the right Viagra dosage is not about trial and error on your own. It’s about working with a provider who understands your health history, lifestyle, and goals. Too low a dose may not be effective, but too high a dose may increase the likelihood of side effects.

Common adjustments may include lowering the dose if side effects are being noticed, increasing the dosage if there has been minimal response after several uses, or switching medications entirely if sildenafil isn’t a good match for your body chemistry. 

A doctor’s guidance ensures that you’re using the medication as effectively and safely as possible.

Can I Take Viagra Every Day?

In some cases, daily Viagra may be appropriate, but only with your doctor’s approval and ongoing supervision

Daily use may be considered for men who experience performance anxiety or are in committed relationships where spontaneous intimacy is standard. However there are plenty of other options available for most men.

For example, tadalafil (Cialis) comes in a low-dose version specifically designed for daily use and offers a longer window of effectiveness, sometimes up to 36 hours. (9) Daily sildenafil usage is not typical, as it’s generally only prescribed as need-use only. It’s powerful and fast-acting, which makes it great for “as-needed” use but less ideal for daily dosing unless prescribed for that reason.

Daily use can make sense if you have found that other medications (such as Cialis) haven’t worked or have caused unwanted side effects, or if you want to maintain a regular intimacy schedule. However, it’s essential to remember that daily use is something to evaluate with your provider, not something to self-prescribe.

What Happens If You Take Viagra Too Often?

Using Viagra more than directed won’t help you improve performance in the bedroom. In fact, it can actually increase risk. Sildenafil side effects are usually mild when taken as prescribed, but overuse can make them more intense or potentially dangerous.

Taking Viagra too often can also lower your blood pressure more than expected, lead to priapism (a prolonged, painful erection), or stress your cardiovascular system, especially if you have heart disease. (10) Any priapism that lasts for more than four hours should be considered an emergency and you should seek medical assistance immediately. 

If you find yourself needing or wanting to take Viagra more than once a day, it’s time to talk to a professional. There may be underlying issues such a hormonal imbalance (namely low testosterone) causing erectile dysfunction or performance issues. 

What Viagra Therapy Looks Like at Gameday Men’s Health

At Gameday Men’s Health, we don’t just write a prescription and send you on your way. Our ED treatments are part of a comprehensive approach that considers your full health profile, age, lab results, medical history, lifestyle, and personal goals.

At Gameday, you won’t be left guessing about the right Viagra dosage or what usage is safe for you. Every plan is customized and closely monitored so you get the results you want without risking your health.

And while Viagra is one of the most trusted medications available for performance enhancement, it’s not the only option. Gameday offers a range of  treatments for ED, including:

• Tadalafil (Cialis): Tadalafil (brand name Cialis) is available for longer-lasting effects or daily use, although you should first consult with a clinician to see if it’s right for you.
  
  
• Trimix injections: Trimix injections combine multiple medications for men who haven’t responded to oral medications.
  
  
• Shockwave therapy: Shockwave therapy is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment that uses low-intensity acoustic waves to help improve blood flow and support long-term sexual function. This therapy is Health Canada–approved and has been shown to promote tissue regeneration and enhance performance naturally, without the need for medication or surgery.

The focus at Gameday is on restoring your confidence and wellness, not just handing you pills and hoping for the best.

Not sure how often you should take Viagra? Gameday’s ED experts help you find the safest, most effective treatment for your lifestyle. Schedule your consultation today.

Conclusion

Viagra is a safe and effective ED treatment when used properly and monitored by a health professional. For most men, that means taking it in moderation—no more than once every 24 hours. Trying to take it more frequently won’t boost your performance, and it can increase your risk for uncomfortable or dangerous side effects.

The key to safe and successful use isn’t about guessing the right schedule. It’s about working with a healthcare provider who understands what you need and how your body responds to treatment.

If you’re ready to take control of your sexual health, Gameday Men’s Health is here to help. Schedule a consultation at your local Gameday Men’s Health location and discover a treatment plan that’s built just for you.

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References

1. We Need to Talk About Erectile Dysfunction: 38% of Canadian Men Don’t Know You Need a Prescription for ED Medication
2. Effects of sildenafil on human penile blood vessels
3. About sildenafil (Viagra)
4. How long does Viagra last?
5. How and when to take sildenafil
6. How Much Viagra Is Too Much?
7. Sildenafil (oral route)
8. Viagra interactions: Alcohol, medications, and other factors
9. Cialis dosage
10. 8 Viagra (Sildenafil) Side Effects: How to Manage Flushing, Headaches, and More

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