You’ve probably heard the term ‘Premature Ejaculation’ several times. Knowing what it means or how it may or may not apply to you is essential. Hence, the reason for this article.
Before we delve into the 5 things you must know if you experience Premature Ejaculation, it is essential to give a little backdrop on what Premature ejaculation is.
This is important because Premature Ejaculation is self-diagnosed, the majority of the time. Before you go diagnosing yourself, you want to be sure you have your facts right, ain’t it?.
What is Premature Ejaculation (PE)?
According to the oxford dictionary, Premature ejaculation is the ejaculation of semen during sexual intercourse, before or immediately after penetration.
PE is a male sexual dysfunction that is characterized by:
- Ejaculation occurs prior to or within about one minute of vaginal penetration from the first sexual experience (lifelong PE).
- Or, a clinically significant reduction in latency time, often to about 3 minutes or less (acquired PE).
- The inability to delay ejaculation on all or nearly all vaginal penetrations.
- Negative personal consequences, including distress, frustration, and/or avoidance of sexual intimacy.
The above definition was given by the Ad Hoc Committee formed by the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM), for the definition of Premature Ejaculation. (Gillman & Gillman, 2019).
Now that we understand what PE is, it is important to note that its exact cause and manner of development are not well known.
However, there are factors that make you prone to PE.
Factors that improve susceptibility to Premature Ejaculation
The factors that improve susceptibility to Premature Ejaculation, also referred to by some, as the causes of PE are classed into 2. They are;
- Biological factors – include hypersensitivity of the Penile glans, the disturbance of the central serotonin neurotransmission, hyperthyroidism, and local irritation due to prostatitis amongst others. (Yu-Chao et all, 2013).
- Psychological factors – include depression, anxiety, previous sexual abuse experience, and fear of being caught while having sexual intercourse, amongst others.
The factors stated above can lead to Lifelong and Acquired PE. What are Lifelong and Acquired PE?
My bad, let’s look at both in a little bit more detail, shall we?
Types of Premature Ejaculation
Premature Ejaculation has various types which include:
- Lifelong PE (primary)
- Acquired PE (secondary)
- Variable PE
- Subjective PE
Lifelong PE
When we talk about Lifelong PE, we basically refer to a scenario where an individual experiences Premature ejaculation right from his first vaginal penetration. A chemical imbalance can cause this. This chemical imbalance lowers the threshold for ejaculation.
People with lifelong PE, experience low intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT). An individual with lifelong PE may also experience several sexual dysfunctions including early erection and early ejaculation amongst others.
Acquired PE
When we talk about acquired PE, we refer to a scenario where PE only starts developing at some point. That is, the Individual at one point has enjoyed normal ejaculations. It refers to reduced ejaculatory latency and can be caused by performance anxiety and/or erectile dysfunction.
In the case of Acquired PE, the reason for the dysfunction is often identifiable.
A scenario where the PE is inconsistent or Irregular is called Variable PE. While PE is termed Subjective when an Individual self-perceives it as PE despite him having a normal IELT reading.
Possible Remedies for Premature Ejaculation
The possible remedies/treatments/cures for Premature Ejaculation include the following:
Pharmacological Treatments
Reducing Penile Sensitivity
When the penis is excessively sensitive it can affect your sexual life. This can lead to PE.
Penis sensitivity is sometimes caused by phimosis, urinary tract infection (UTI), or injury to the penis. It is, therefore, important to note that Penile sensitivity is a common cause of PE.
Using Anaesthetic creams and sprays such as Lidocaine or prilocaine cream can help in reducing penile sensitivity. Topical ointments or sprays, work by reducing the response of the nerves to delay ejaculation.
Oral Medicines
Dapoxetine is an SSRI specifically made as a treatment for Premature Ejaculation. It is advised to take it between 1 to 3 hours before sexual intercourse, but not more than once a day. Other SSRI drugs considered safe for individuals experiencing PE are Clomipramine, fluoxetine, Paroxetine, and Sertraline.
It is important to note that these drugs may have to be taken for 1-2 weeks, before gaining full effects. (NHS, 2020).
Sex Therapy
Oftentimes, PE is a result of psychological issues. Undertaking Sex therapy will help address concerns about sexual feelings, functions, and intimacy. Sex therapy focuses on the emotional, behavioral, and relational factors that impact sexual function. (Schweichler .J., n.d).
Another remedy/treatment to consider is the Behavioural technique.
Foods that Cure Premature Ejaculation
Certain fruits and foods are believed to help cure PE or at least help delay ejaculation. However, it is important to note that there is no scientific proof of this effect.
These foods/fruits include;
The 5 Things You Must Know!!
Experiencing Premature Ejaculation can be a hassle. But here are a few things that can help you cope, while you work towards addressing the Issue for good;
- Masturbate every 1-2 hours before sex.
- Try distracting yourself when having sex with something completely different.
- Use a thick condom (more than 1 condom preferably). This would help reduce penile sensation and improve latency time.
- Take breaks during Sex by having your sex partner sit on top during sexual intercourse to allow them to pull away when you’re close to ejaculation.
- Briefly shut down the ejaculatory reflex (an automatic reflex, during which ejaculation occurs), when having sex by taking a deep breath.
Please note, that treatment of PE is based on a person-to-person basis. Hence, it is important to see your General Practitioner (GP)/ Doctor for treatments tailored to your condition.
DISCLAIMER: This article should not in any way be taken as a substitute for expert advice or for a prescription. Please ensure to visit your Doctor/ GP.
REFERENCES
Yu-Chao .H., Hsin-Chieh .H., Shih-Tsung .H. (2013, March). Treatment of Premature Ejaculation. Research Gate. researchgate.net/publication/257730910_Treatment_of_Premature_ejaculation
Gillman .N. & Gillman .M. (2019, October). Premature Ejaculation: Aetiology and Treatment Strategies. Research Gate. researchgate.net/publication/336820912_Premature_Ejaculation_Aetiology_and_Treatment_Strategies
Dr. Lowy .M. (2018, May). Premature Ejaculation. HEALTHY MALE ANDROLOGY AUSTRALIA. healthymale.org.au/files/resources/premature_ejaculation_fact_sheet_healthy_male_2019.pdf
Roland .J. (2019, May 19). What causes Penis Sensitivity. Healthline. healthline.com/health/mens-health/sensitive-penis
Schweichler .J. (n.d.). Introduction to Sex Therapy. MEN’s Sexual Health. ncpha.memberclicks.net/assets/cancersurvivors/Men%27s%20sexual%20Health.pdf
NHS (2020, July 21). Can Premature Ejaculation be controlled? NHS. www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/sexual-health/can-premature-ejaculation-be-controlled