Premature Ejaculation Causes and Treatments
Premature ejaculation is a condition in which a man has uncontrolled ejaculation or orgasm sooner during intercourse. Often caused by psychological and biological factors, this condition affects 1 in 3 men. Infrequent episodes of premature ejaculation are not a cause for concern, but if the symptoms show up frequently, it’s important to consult your doctor.
It involves a complex interaction of biological and psychological factors. Those suffering from the condition frequently
- Are not able to control ejaculation during penetrative sex
- Experience frustration and distress, feel embarrassed, and tend to maintain distance from their sexual partners
- Achieve orgasm too quickly, almost within one or two minutes of penetration
Premature Ejaculation Causes
PE occurs sooner after or before you penetrate your partner. Considered to be caused by multiple factors, PE is primarily the result of psychological and physical factors.
- Psychological factors may include depression, anxiety, stress, and problems with sexual partner. Sexual anxiety can also contribute toward premature ejaculation. It is more likely to be experienced by young men during the initial stages of a relationship when there is too much excitement and anxiety. With increasing sexual experience and age, it gets better with time and men are able to delay orgasm.
- Physical causes of premature ejaculation may include underactive thyroid, infection of the prostate gland, or prostate disease.
- Disease of the nervous system, including peripheral neuropathy and multiple sclerosis can also be a cause.
- In some men who frequently use recreational drugs or develop alcohol dependency, the symptoms of PE may show up.
- It can also be linked to erectile dysfunction and related conditions. Addictive drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamine, can cause premature ejaculation in men.
- Some medicines belonging to the dopaminergic group used as treatment for Parkinson’s disease can cause uncontrolled ejaculation.
A thorough physical exam can help the doctor diagnose PE symptoms in a patient.
Premature Ejaculation Treatment
In some men, the condition may improve over a period of time or with sexual experience and age. Practicing stress-reduction and relaxation techniques may help in delaying ejaculation. If the condition is caused by drug or alcohol dependency, it might help by cutting down on the use of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs.
Common treatment options include oral medications, behavioral techniques and counseling, and topical anesthetic creams and sprays containing a numbing agent. These cream or spray is applied to the penis just before intercourse in order to reduce sensation and delay ejaculation. Antidepressants, analgesics, and drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction, such as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, are used as premature ejaculation treatments. However, drugs and topical analgesics may have allergic reactions and side effects, so it is best to use natural stress reduction techniques if stress is the root cause of your problem.
Talk therapy is increasingly popular today as a treatment for stress-related disorders such as premature ejaculation. It involves talking with a psychologist about your relationship with your partner, sexual health, and experiences. Talk therapy sessions can help find better ways of overcoming stress and reducing performance anxiety. Counseling is more beneficial when combined with medication therapy.