Premature ejaculation-causes, symptoms and treatment

Premature ejaculation is a type of sexual dysfunction which occurs when a man releases (ejaculates) semen quickly during sexual intercourse than his partner would like. It often happens before or shortly after penetration during sexual intercourse. Premature ejaculation is a common sexual complaint and, at least 1 out of 3 men have experienced this premature ejaculation problem at some time.

Occasional episodes of early ejaculation are common and are not a cause for concern. However, if you’re experiencing that around half of your sexual intercourse attempts result in premature ejaculation, seek medical attention.

Causes of premature ejaculation 

Many physiological and psychological factors can cause a man to experience premature ejaculation.

Physiological causes of premature ejaculation include:

• Prostate problems
• Using recreational drugs
• Thyroid problems ( over and underactive thyroid gland) 
•  Hormone imbalances

Psychological causes of premature ejaculation include:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety about sexual performance 
• Relationship problems 
• Poor body image
• Biological reasons (like an extra sensitive penis)
• Disturbing sexual experience from childhood (like sexual abuse)
• Early sexual experiences

Types of premature ejaculation 

A common symptom of premature ejaculation is when a man is unable to delay or control ejaculation during sexual intercourse. Depending on experiences of premature ejaculation, it is divided into two types:

• Primary premature ejaculation

When a man is experiencing premature ejaculation nearly all the time, starting from early sexual intercourses. It is often due to psychological causes. 

• Secondary premature ejaculation 

When a man has recently developed the problem. It is also known as acquired premature ejaculation and can cause due to both psychological and physiological factors.  

Risk factors associated with premature ejaculation 

Many factors can increase the risk of premature ejaculation, including:

• Stress: Taking emotional or mental stress can play a role in premature ejaculation.
• Erectile dysfunction: You might be at increased risk of premature ejaculation if you consistently or occasionally have trouble getting or keeping an erection during sexual intercourse. Fear of losing an erection might cause you to hurry through sexual encounters.

Complications associated with premature ejaculation 

Premature ejaculation can cause difficulties in your personal life, including:

• Relationship problems: A common complication of premature ejaculation is relationship stress, where you will be under the stress of early ejaculation and not keeping your partner happy.
• Fertility problems: Premature ejaculation can occasionally create problems for couples trying to have a baby if ejaculation does not occur intravaginally.

Diagnosis of premature ejaculation 

For diagnosing premature ejaculation, the urologist will ask about the patient’s medical and sexual history. If the urologist is unable to find any physiological or psychological reason for the condition, he may recommend neurological tests.

Treatment for premature ejaculation  

There are various treatment options available for premature ejaculation based on its causes. A urologist will use anyone or a combination of the following treatment to treat a patient depending upon its severity.  

Behavioural therapy 

In behavioural therapy, a patient may ask to masturbate an hour before sexual intercourse to delay ejaculation during sex. The doctor may recommend avoiding intercourse for a while and focus on other types of sexual activity to remove pressure on the patient’s sexual encounters.

Pause-squeeze technique

In this technique, the doctor will ask the partner to squeeze the end of the penis (the point where the glans joins the shaft) for a few minutes during sex until the urge to ejaculate passes. Repeat this technique often to increase ejaculation time during sexual intercourse.  

Condoms 

Condoms decrease penis sensitivity which helps premature ejaculation during sexual intercourse. These condoms are also known as “climax control” as they contain numbing agents like benzocaine or lidocaine that help delay ejaculation. 

Medications

Some creams and sprays that contain numbing agents like benzocaine, lidocaine or prilocaine can be applied topically on the penis 10 to 15 minutes before sexual intercourse to reduce sensation and help delay ejaculation. Some oral medications after a doctor’s prescription can also use to reduce and delay premature ejaculation.

Counselling

Sometimes premature ejaculation can be due to psychological factors. Talking to a doctor regarding issues related to premature ejaculation can be helpful for a couple. After taking counselling sessions, the doctor can develop a suitable treatment plan for them. 

Preventions of premature ejaculation 

There is no known way to prevent premature ejaculation. Some advice might be helpful to reduce the risk of having premature ejaculation, such as maintaining a healthy attitude about sex, following a healthy lifestyle, communicating with your partner, and addressing issues like depression and anxiety.

Final thought

If you are experiencing issues of premature ejaculation or if you have any other problems that you need help with, you can book an appointment with our consultants, or you can reach us at +91 124 4882200.