Serotonin Levels and Ejaculation

Ejaculation refers to forceful/ involuntary release of semen during the act of intercourse. A lot of people use terms like climax, ejaculation and orgasm interchangeably, which is not entirely correct. Climax usually marks the beginning of orgasm that follows ejaculation but all three events may not occur simultaneously in all cases.

In order to understand ejaculation, it is vital to know what neurotransmitters and mechanisms plays a role in ejaculation. Neurotransmitters acts as chemical messengers in the brain and are released by brain cells (or neurons) to facilitate communication among different cells.

Serotonin and Ejaculation – what is the association?

Serotonin is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter that serves several functions in addition to delaying ejaculation – to make intimate moments last longer. Any medical, emotional or chemical disruption in the biochemical balance of serotonin release can affect the normal ejaculatory process and may present with premature ejaculation (if serotonin levels are low). Did you know that premature ejaculation affects 3 of 10 men in US at some point of their life?

It is therefore important to understand how certain neurotransmitters can affect ejaculation for long lasting intimate moments.

If you are suffering from premature ejaculation, one simple treatment protocol used by healthcare professional is increasing the serotonin levels in brain by preventing the reuptake – with the help of a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which include drugs agents like Fluoxetine, Sertraline, Dapoxetine and Paroxetine. Since these are powerful drug agents, it is highly recommended not to start the therapy before speaking to your healthcare provider.

Besides pharmacology, there are some training methods (like squeeze and stop -start techniques to prevent premature ejaculation. Other helpful tools include:

• Use of condoms
• Use of local anesthetics
• Counseling

What happens if serotonin levels are high?

As discussed previously, if serotonin levels are high, men may experience delayed ejaculation – a phenomenon in which ejaculation is unnecessary delayed. Drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (also referred to as SSRI) are widely used as antidepressants and usually presents with delayed ejaculation.

If you are experiencing delayed ejaculation, speak to your therapist. Besides pharmacological options, there are a number of simple exercises, coping techniques and psychotherapy options that can minimize the intensity of such disorders.

What to do if you are suffering from ejaculatory dysfunction?

If you are experiencing ejaculatory dysfunction, it is highly recommended to speak to a doctor to see what might be causing this issue. In some cases, the cause is as simple as a drug that you are taking for another indication. Adjustment of dose or a drug alternative can easily resolve your issue without requiring any other treatment.