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What is premature ejaculation? Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Medically Reviewed by Dr Sravya, MBBS, MS 

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a sexual dysfunction that affects life significantly on personal, mental, and sexual levels.  The condition is characterized by the inability to control ejaculation, leading to an orgasm occurring sooner than desired during sexual intercourse. While Premature Ejaculation can be a source of frustration and distress, it’s essential to recognize that effective treatments and strategies are available to manage this condition.

premature ejaculation

Table of Contents

    1. Causes of Premature Ejaculation
    2. Effects of Premature Ejaculation
    3. Symptoms of premature Ejaculation
    4. Treatment Options for Premature Ejaculation
    5. Conclusion

Causes of Premature Ejaculation

There are various underlying causes of PE,  psychological, biological factors or a combination of both. Let’s see in detail some common causes of PE.

Psychological Factors:

  • Anxiety : Anxiety related to sexual function, performance anxiety, and anxiety about rejection can lead to premature ejaculation.
  • Stress : stress related to work and relationships can contribute to sexual dysfunction.
  • Depression : Depression can have a big impact on a person's personal, social, and sexual life, causing sexual disinterest, dysfunction, and Premature ejaculation.
  • The feeling of guilt or shame : Guilt or shame about past sexual experiences or sexuality can lead to PE
  • Sexual abuse : Traumatic experiences in childhood, sexual abuse can have a bad impact on a person's sexual life, leading to PE.

Biological factors:

  • Hypersensitivity: some people are highly sensitive to stimulation, and they ejaculate early. Men may have heightened sensitivity in the genital area or abnormal levels of certain neurotransmitters, which can impact ejaculation control.
  • Hormonal imbalance: Serotonin hormone imbalance can trigger PE
  • Genetic factors: Genetic predisposition is strongly linked to PE.

Behavioral factors:

  • Masturbation: Poor techniques or rapid, frequent masturbation can lead to PE.
  • Substance abuse or medications: Some substances or recreational drugs are associated with side effects like losing control over ejaculation.
  • Medical conditions: Diabetes or multiple sclerosis, brain diseases, thyroid, and blood pressure can lead to PE.

Neurological factors:

  • Nerve damage or any damage to the nervous system can lead to PE.
  • Stress, anxiety, and performance-related pressure can contribute to Premature Ejaculation. Depressive thoughts and emotional factors can interfere with the ability to relax and maintain control during sexual intercourse.

Social factors

  • Relationship Issues: Relationship conflicts, communication problems, or lack of emotional intimacy can contribute to PE. A supportive and understanding partner can play a crucial role in managing this condition.

Effects of Premature Ejaculation

  • Physical and Emotional Impact: Premature Ejaculation can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and reduced self-esteem. It affects the overall satisfaction and intimacy within a relationship.
  • Performance Anxiety: Men who have experienced Premature Ejaculation may develop performance anxiety, fearing they won't be able to satisfy their partner and this anxiety can further exacerbate the issue.
  • Impact on Relationships: Unresolved PE can strain relationships due to dissatisfaction and a lack of intimacy. Open communication and support are essential to overcome these challenges.

Symptoms of premature ejaculation

  • Ejaculation occurs early : In men with premature ejaculation, ejaculation occurs within a minute of vaginal penetration preventing a person and his partner from enjoying satisfactory sexual intercourse.
  • Inability to control ejaculation : Men have no control over ejaculation and fail to prolong sexual activity even if they wish to.
  • Avoidance of attachment or intimacy : PE typically creates anxiety and depression in the majority of men suffering from the same. It leads to avoidance of intimacy, attachment with the partner, or making new acquaintances. It is common if it affects the person's mental health and interferes significantly with their sexual life, then it becomes an issue of concern.

Treatment Options for premature ejaculation:

  • Behavioral Techniques: Techniques such as the "stop-start" and "squeeze" methods involve interrupting sexual activity to prevent ejaculation. These exercises help increase awareness of sensations and improve control.
  • Pelvic floor exercise: kegel exercise can help to gain strength in pelvic muscles, improving control of ejaculation.
  • Counseling: Psychological therapy can address performance anxiety, stress, and other emotional factors contributing to PE. Therapists can help individuals develop coping strategies and improve self-confidence.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy: It is the best therapy to control performance anxiety and help cope with stress
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been found to delay ejaculation. However, consulting a medical professional before using any medication is crucial.
  • Topical Creams: Desensitizing creams or sprays containing numbing agents can be applied to the penis to reduce sensitivity and prolong ejaculation.
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed to delay ejaculation. It increases serotonin levels.
  • PDE inhibitors: PDE inhibitors are prescribed for erectile dysfunction. It has been proven to help control ejaculation.
  • Sexual techniques: trying different positions and techniques may help to delay ejaculation
  • Masturbation in slow technique to arouse stimulation can help delay ejaculation.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can positively impact both physical and psychological aspects of PE.
  • Herbal medications: it is a popular choice of treatment for sexual dysfunctions; Ginseng and Ginkgo biloba are available in the markets.
  • Seeking Professional Help

It’s important to note that if Premature Ejaculation becomes a persistent issue and begins to interfere significantly with one’s quality of life, seeking help from a healthcare professional is recommended. A doctor can conduct a thorough assessment, rule out any underlying medical conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion

Prematureejaculation is sexual dysfunction. It is not an open discussion topic. It may be frustrating for men to deal with this problem as it is viewed as a weakness or inability on a male part to satisfy his partner. Partners also need to be aware of the fact that it can be treated with proper treatment and emotional support.

Premature ejaculation impacts both physical and emotional well-being understanding the causes, effects, and treatment options is essential for individuals and couples dealing with this condition. A combination of behavioral techniques, counseling, medications, and lifestyle changes makes it possible to manage and overcome premature ejaculation, leading to improved sexual satisfaction and overall relationship quality.