Premature Ejaculation Symptoms, Diagnosis & its Treatment

Ejaculation refers to the release of semen from the body. It is called premature ejaculation when the semen is released out of the man’s body during intercourse earlier than he or his partner would prefer.

The semen is released just before or immediately after penetration. About 30% of men are diagnosed with premature ejaculation, and psychological as well as biological factors might be responsible for it.

Also called premature climax, rapid ejaculation, or early ejaculation, if you do not experience it often, it does not need any intervention. However, if occurring regularly, it can be a frustrating experience and can influence your relationship negatively.

Nevertheless, the condition can be resolved through various management strategies, including counselling, learning delaying techniques, and medication.

Symptoms of premature ejaculation

The primary symptom of premature ejaculationis the inability to hold back ejaculation for more than three minutes post-penetration.

Secondary symptoms include embarrassment, anxiety, distress, depression, and difficult interpersonal relations.

Types of premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation is classified into two types:

• Primary: Also called lifelong primary premature ejaculation, this type is always present, which means it occurs every time from the very first experience of sexual intercourse.
• Secondary: Secondary or acquired ejaculation might have developed recently, that is, after experiencing normal sexual intercourse, or it can be experienced intermittently.

Premature ejaculation causes

Previously, it was thought that psychological reasons for premature ejaculation are a predominant contributing factor. However, research reveals that some chemical and biological causes can also result in early ejaculation.

1. Psychological causes:

• Feelings of inadequacy.
• Issues with body image.
• Relationship issues.
• Overexcitement.
• Inexperience.
• Stress.
• Performance anxiety.
• Depression.
• History of sexual abuse.
• Raised in a too strict moral environment.

2. Biological and chemical causes:

• Low levels of brain chemicals named dopamine and serotonin that are vital for sexual arousal.
• Irregular hormone levels, including that of oxytocin.
• Infection and inflammation of the urethra and prostate gland.
• Thyroid issues.
• Old age.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Alcohol intake in excessive amounts.
• Drug abuse.
• Erectile dysfunction.

How is premature ejaculation diagnosed?

There are certain criteria to diagnose premature ejaculation.

An individual may be diagnosed with the condition if he is almost always ejaculating within 3 minutes of penetration, is unable to hold up ejaculation every time during intercourse, or if premature ejaculation has begun to affect him mentally, making him feel frustrated and avoid sexual intercourse.

If you are experiencing early ejaculation, you need to consult your healthcare provider. They will examine you and ask questions about your general health, any previous diseases, your relationship status, and your sexual history.

They may ask you whether premature ejaculation occurs every time, the duration of the problem, the frequency at which it happens, and so on.

Further, they might inquire if you are on certain medications or herbal products, your alcohol intake, or your drug abuse history.

If they suspect underlying medical reasons for premature ejaculation, they may prescribe lab tests to check for any infection, hormonal dysfunction, or other disorders.

Premature ejaculation treatment

Treatment for early ejaculation depends on the causative factor. Counselling, behavioural therapy, and medications are some of the treatment modalities which are used independently or in combination to manage this condition:

1. Behavioural therapy

Two major techniques, named the stop-start technique and squeeze technique, are employed to delay ejaculation.

The stop-start technique involves getting control of the sensations prior to ejaculation. It involves frequently bringing yourself to ejaculation without actually ejaculating, then stopping and resting.

The squeeze technique involves squeezing the penile tip before ejaculation. This will decrease the ejaculation impulse, preventing ejaculation.

2. Exercise

Sometimes weak pelvic muscles contribute to primary ejaculation. Strengthening these muscles might solve the problem. Pelvic floor muscles exercises, also called Kegel exercises, are perfect for helping improve the muscle tone of pelvic muscles.

3. Desensitizing the penis

Using numbing agents like sprays or creams on the penis about 15 to 30 minutes before intercourse helps reduce penile sensation, thereby reducing the chances of premature ejaculation.

Wearing a condom may also help prevent this. Condoms containing anaesthetic medication are available to dull the sensation. Using a double condom also sometimes helps with early ejaculation.

4. Counselling

Counselling a psychologist enables you to manage stress better and eases underlying anxiety and depression that may have been contributing to your condition.

Combining counselling with medication is more likely to treat premature ejaculation successfully. Also, couples therapy is a good option to explore the treatment of the condition.

5. Oral medication

Certain antidepressants have a side effect of delaying ejaculation, which is why they are used as premature ejaculation treatment.Similarly, some painkillers are also effective in treating or managing this condition.

If erectile dysfunction is the underlying reason for premature ejaculation, medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction can also help.

6. Self-help techniques

Some self-help techniques like taking a deep breath before impending ejaculation, diverting attention to something different during sex, and exploring different positions might help with the condition.

7. Lifestyle changes

Some lifestyle modifications such as taking a balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise, cutting down on alcohol, quitting smoking, practising yoga and meditation, etc., might help improve the symptoms.

Conclusion

It is imperative to consult a doctor if you are having prolonged issues with premature ejaculation. To avail of holistic fertility and healthcare services combined with state-of-art infrastructure, visit your nearest Birla IVF & Fertility Centre or book an appointment with Dr Apeksha Sahu.

FAQs

1. How long can premature ejaculation last?

Ans: Premature ejaculation can be permanent in individuals who have it from the very first sexual encounter. However, it can be temporary in people who have developed it after having normal ejaculation previously.

2. How can I stop quick release naturally?

Ans: Practicing yoga and meditation, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and stop and start/squeeze techniques, as well as eating a healthy nutritious diet and foods rich in zinc and magnesium, are some natural ways to get rid of premature ejaculation naturally.

3. Can premature ejaculation be controlled?

Ans: Yes, using a thick condom or double condom can reduce penile sensitivity. Taking a deep breath before the urge, using myriad positions during intercourse, and practising the squeeze or stop-start techniques are helpful in controlling premature ejaculation.

4. Can a psychiatrist help treat premature ejaculation?

Ans: Yes, if the cause of your condition is psychological, consulting a psychiatrist can be helpful. Furthermore, a psychiatrist can also help you cope with the after-effects of premature ejaculation and aid in improving your relationship with your partner.