Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the male sexual dysfunction that pretty much everyone is aware of. However, it is not the only one. Nearly every source of health and medical research and practice cites premature ejaculation (PE), or “early ejaculation”, as the most common male sexual problem worldwide. This is especially true since the treatment of ED has become easier and more effective with the availability of drugs like Sildenafil and Tadalafil. To consider these ED medications being used for treating PE may seem counterintuitive at first, especially to the layman. After all, wouldn’t a drug that helps build and maintain a hard erection, with sexual stimulation, only further an early ejaculation response? Surprisingly, the answer can be “no”. While not officially approved as a treatment for PE, some studies have shown that erectile dysfunction drugs (sildenafil, tadalafil) may actually help early ejaculation problems.

How is premature ejaculation defined?

It’s one of those questions that seems like it shouldn’t really have to be asked – you know what it is when it happens. Put simply, the American Urological Association defines ejaculation as “premature” if it occurs sooner than desired, either before or shortly after penetration, causing distress to either one or both partners. Renowned sex therapists Masters and Johnson even put a qualification on the definition, stating that it is “the inability of the male to control ejaculation sufficiently to satisfy his female partner in more than 50% of coital episodes”. This inability to maintain control over the orgasmic reflex can happen during foreplay, or in the first moments after penetration.

A common problem

ccording to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NIH), PE affects about 30% of men, and may affect as many as 75%. It is the most common male sexual disorder. (Coincidentally, 30% of men with premature ejaculation issues also report having erectile dysfunction issues.) Other reports put the percentage of PE issues at 40%. Additionally, the numbers may even be low, as embarrassment and frustration can make it hard for men to discuss it, even with their doctors.

What causes premature ejaculation?

Many different factors can contribute to PE. It is commonly considered to be psychological in nature however, biological problems have been identified as possible factors as well.

• Hormone issues                                                                 • Performance anxiety
• Diabetes                                                                             • Alcohol/drug use
• Depression/stress/anxiety                                                  • Penile over-sensitivity
• Prostate inflammation or infection                                     • Relationship problems
• Confidence/self-esteem issues                                           • Erectile dysfunction

How to treat premature ejaculation

The level and severity of PE can often be modified with a combination of physical actions and psychological assistance. The most often recommended steps to take are:

Pelvic exercises

Pelvic floor muscles support your bladder and enable ejaculation. To find them, stop urinating midstream. The muscles that you use to do that, are your pelvic floor muscles. To exercise them, tighten and hold for 3 to 5 seconds, then relax for 3 to 5 seconds. Repeat this 10 times, and do this once or twice a day.

Sexual behavior modifications

These include things like the “stop and start” method and the “squeeze” method. The names, while not very scientific, are pretty much self-explanatory.

Numbing agents

Creams, sprays and wipes are available with numbing agents like benzocaine or lidocaine. They can work to desensitize the penis and delay ejaculation. Always follow directions when using these products, and don’t overuse them.

Counseling

Things like anxiety, depression and heavy stress, along with relationship issues can all lead to problems in the bedroom and should not be left unaddressed.

All of the above are self-help ways to treat a problem with PE. However, there are some medical options to consider as well.

Medications

Anti-depressants like sertraline (Zoloft™), paroxetine (Paxil™) and fluoxetine (Prozac™) are what’s known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and have shown results in delaying orgasms by increasing serotonin levels.

Be open with your partner

No matter what self-treatments or medical options you explore in working to overcome an issue with PE, the most important thing you can do is be open and honest with your partner while you work through it. Doing so can help take some of the anxiety and stress out of the situation, helping you to focus on enjoying sex, which is what is most important.Getting started is just a click away.