Premature ejaculation

What is it?

Premature ejaculation is ejaculation that occurs with minimal sexual stimulation. That is, before, during or shortly after penetration and more quickly than the person would like. This problem may have always been there or may arise at a certain point. It is a frequent problem, affecting 20-30% of men.

Which factors influence premature ejaculation?

• Emotional problems, stress, fear
• Congenital hypersensitivity
• Opiate misuse
• Parkinson's disease, hyperthyroidism
• Traumatic sexual experiences
• Age is irrelevant

How is the diagnosis determined?

The doctor will ask for a description of the symptoms and about any medication you are taking. A clinical prostate examination is performed and sometimes a urine and/or blood test.

Treatment

Sometimes there is not only premature ejaculation, but also rapid loss of the erection. When erections are lost too rapidly, the problem is treated first with medication like Viagra.

In case of the patient having hyperthyroidism or prostatitis, this problem will also be addressed first.

Premature ejaculation is remedied with:

• behavioural therapy: stop-start treatment, masturbation
• psycho-sexual treatment, counselling
• applying local anaesthetic to the head of the penis under a condom
• medication: maintenance medication such as Sertraline or Paroxetine (to be taken permanently) or on-demand medication, such as Dapoxetine/Priligy.

Latest publication date: 12/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip