Premature Ejaculation Disorder
There is no fixed time when a man should ejaculate during sexual activity, but if a man ejaculates and loses his erection pretty early, he or his partner might feel a lack of pleasure.
Overview of (PED)
It can be unsatisfying and even embarrassing for a man to have this disorder, but it is a common problem for men. Almost 30% to 40% of men suffer from it at some point in their life. If it occurs on rare occasions there is nothing to be concerned about.
Causes and Risk Factors of PEJO:
The cause of premature ejaculation is not known. Brain chemistry may be a contributing factor. Men who have low levels of serotonin have a tendency to ejaculate early.
Emotional factors which can contribute to the disorder include the following:
- Guilt
- Concern over your sexual performance
- Depression
- Stress
- Lack of confidence or poor body image
- Anxiety
- Relationship issues
- Sexual repression
Some other factors:
Some physical circumstances might also be the reason for premature ejaculation and include:
- Irregular levels of hormones
- Irregular levels of neurotransmitters
- Infection or inflammation of prostate or urethra
- Genetic characters inherited from parents
At times premature ejaculation can be a challenge for men having erectile dysfunction. That’s when the erection does not remain long enough for sex. Men who are stressed that they could lose their erection might develop a habit of hastening to ejaculate. However, treating erectile dysfunction may resolve the premature ejaculation issue.
Diagnosis of Premature Ejaculation Disorder:
A health care professional will start by asking if you have always had the problem or has it recently started. The doctor will ask about your sex drive and your relationships. You will most likely get a physical exam.
The doctor will more than likely refer you to a urologist for a full check-up and tests. If it is determined that the problem is psychological, you will be referred to a mental health professional who works with people that suffer from sexual disorders.
Treatments of Premature Ejaculation:
The majority of men recover by behavioral practices that can help to control ejaculation.
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Stop and start:
This is a technique where you or your partner arouse the penis until you feel like you are going to reach orgasm. Then the arousing behavior is stopped for about a minute or until the feeling subsides. Stimulation starts again and the cycle is repeated three or four times before you ejaculate.
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Strengthening of pelvic muscles:
Weak muscles of the pelvic floor can sometimes contribute to premature ejaculation. Kegel exercises can help to strengthen these muscles. Tighten the muscles of your bladder like you are stopping your urine in midstream. Hold the muscles tight for 3 seconds and then release them for 3 seconds. Do this 10 times, at least three times a day.
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Masturbation:
Some men believe that masturbation before sex helps them to stay regulated during intercourse. This has not been proven.
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Professional Counseling:
A therapist who specializes in sexual disorders can help you work through problems like depression, stress, or anxiety that may be the causative factor for premature ejaculation.
There are no drugs specifically approved to treat premature ejaculation, but there are some medications that are prescribed to treat stress and depression which might be the cause of a co-occurring condition.
Medicines include:
- Antidepressant medications: These can help delay ejaculation. Some examples are Lexapro, Celexa, Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil. These medications can have side effects, so talk to your doctor about if they are right for you.
- Numbing sprays and creams: These are applied to the penis to decrease its sensitivity, potentially delaying ejaculation. Apply them 10-30 minutes before sex and wash off before intercourse to avoid numbing your partner’s genitals.
- Erectile dysfunction medications: While primarily used for erectile dysfunction, these medications (Viagra, Levitra, Cialis, Stendra) can sometimes help with premature ejaculation, especially in men with both conditions.