There are many myths and expectations when it comes to sexuality. How much time it takes for men to reach orgasm varies and depends on many factors. When explained scientifically, on average, it takes 5 to 7 minutes for a man to ejaculate. About 4% of men have no control over their ejaculation. Early ejaculation affects the relationship and sexual satisfaction. When early ejaculation becomes distressful, medically it is termed as premature ejaculation (1). Premature ejaculation is one of the common sexual disorders suffered by men. Various treatments are available for this condition, including medications, topical gels, and relaxation exercises.
Causes
There is not much research done to identify the causes of premature ejaculation. Experts believe that underlying biological and emotional factors lead to premature ejaculation.
Some of the possible causes include;
- Anxiety about sex
- Emotional reasons at a young age or when in the early stage of the relationship
- Some medications
- Use of recreational drugs
- Any infection of the prostate gland
- Disorders of the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis and peripheral neuropathy
Symptoms
The inability to delay ejaculation is the primary symptom faced in this condition. This can occur even during masturbation.
Some of the symptoms of premature ejaculation;
- Ejaculation occurs unintentionally within one minute of penetration
- Premature ejaculation occurring for more than six months
- This condition is making you distressed
- There is no other underlying medical condition
Some men may have trouble with premature ejaculation since they started having sex; some develop it later in life. This can be referred to as “acquired premature ejaculation.”
Treatment
Psychological and behavioral therapy is considered as the first-line treatment in premature ejaculation. Though the FDA does not recommend medications for premature ejaculation, doctors counsel the patients and prescribe drugs based on individual conditions. It may take some time to find the right treatment or combinations of treatment that will work for you. Drug therapy with behavioral therapy can be the most effective course of treatment.
Psychological and behavioral therapy
In this, basic sexual education and sexual satisfaction are addressed, which is seen to benefit significantly. These behavioral and psychological therapies offer potential advantages, including minimal side effects and the ability to promote couples’ sexual interaction. Behavioral therapy is either used alone or in combination with medications to get a better outcome. Stop-start technique and squeeze technique are generally advised in behavioral therapy. These methods help to inhibit the urge to ejaculate by decreasing the sexual stimulus. Some pelvic floor exercises or kegel are recommended to strengthen the pelvic muscles. This helps to improve your ability to control ejaculation. The efficacy of behavioral therapy is uncertain and may not be effective in managing some patients. Further, the treatment requires time and repeated practice to notice any results.
Medications
Topical creams
Some anesthetic creams are used to treat premature ejaculation. Lidocaine-prilocaine creams decrease the sensation of the penis, thus delaying the ejaculation. Topical creams are applied 10 to 20 minutes prior to sexual activity. According to experts, for better effect, topical therapy can be combined with sildenafil. Though topical agents are effective they also have some side effects. There is a chance of reduced sexual pleasure due to loss of sensitivity and also vaginal numbness in the partner.
Oral medications
Many drugs, including analgesics and antidepressants, can delay orgasm. A skilled health professional can prescribe these drugs after a thorough evaluation of your overall health. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are successfully used for treating premature ejaculation. SSRIs are antidepressants. Drugs such as escitalopram, sertraline, or paroxetine are used to help delay ejaculation. The aim of using this medication is to increase synaptic levels of serotonin. Serotonin acts as the primary neurotransmitter involved in cerebral control of ejaculation (2). After taking these medications, it might take ten days to notice any changes. You may experience mild side effects like nausea, drowsiness, and decreased libido. Sildenafil and vardenafil are Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, which are also used in treating premature ejaculation. According to studies, sildenafil improved confidence, the perception of ejaculatory control, and overall sexual satisfaction. It also decreased the refractory time to achieve a second erection after ejaculation in men with premature ejaculation (3).
Online Consultation
You can consult a doctor online for premature ejaculation. A doctor will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to understand the underlying causes. Based on your medical condition, a health professional can advise therapy and prescribe medications. If you are suffering from premature ejaculation and willing to get evaluated for treatment from a skilled doctor, click here. Our U.S. licensed physician will review your treatment request, follow up, and, if suitable, write a prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is premature ejaculation diagnosed?
Based on your sexual and medical history and with few questions, your doctor can determine your condition. Your medical condition and psychological factors need to be evaluated for the diagnosis of premature ejaculation.
2. Can premature ejaculation be treated?
Yes, there are several treatment approaches for premature ejaculation. Behavioral therapy, such as relaxation exercises and medications, can be advised for treating premature ejaculation. Even counseling and lifestyle modifications can improve your condition.
3. What happens if I don’t get any treatment for premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation might lead to dissatisfaction in your partner, which may affect your relationship and personal life. If you are in a relationship, it is better to consult a sexual health expert to get treated.
4. What are the different treatment approaches for premature ejaculation?
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Behavioral and psychological therapy that includes pelvic floor exercises and start and stop techniques.
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Delaying orgasms using topical gels and medications.
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Combination of behavioral therapy and medications.
5. How can I prevent it?
You can not prevent this condition but can cope with it by following certain treatment options. Discuss with your doctor and follow the recommended treatment modalities. It may take time, but your condition will improve.
Final Words
Premature ejaculation can be distressing, which will affect your sexual pleasure, harm your relationships, and affect your quality of life. It is a common sexual problem faced by many, and there is no need to feel embarrassed about it. Talking about your problem and consulting a doctor is an important step you need to take to find a solution to this issue. With determination and the right treatment approach, you can overcome this problem.