According to sexologists, premature ejaculation is amongst the most reported problems. Before going into the causes and treatment methods, let’s understand first what ejaculation is?
Ejaculation is the release of semen at the climax of the intercourse or masturbation. The semen releases with a great force so that it traverses through the vagina easily and quickly.
It is important that ejaculation happens after sufficient stimulation. When it happens, then a couple would like during the physical relationship, then it is called Premature Ejaculation or PE.
Sometimes Premature Ejaculation is referred as Rapid Ejaculation, Early Ejaculation or Premature Climax.
It is quite frustrating, and it makes sex less enjoyable. In most of the cases, it affects the relationship adversely.
Premature ejaculation happening once in a while shouldn’t be a matter of concern. However, repeated occurrences require medical intervention.
Process of ejaculation
The central nervous system in our body controls it. When a person is sexually stimulated, the spinal cord and brain get activated.
After reaching a certain level of excitement, the reproductive organs get signals to release the semen through the penis.
There are two phases of it. In the first phase, sperms move from the testicles to the prostate gland. Here they mix with the seminal fluid and traverse to the base of the penis via tubes.
The semen is sent out with force due to the contraction of muscles present at the base of the penis. The climax (or orgasm) and ejaculation occur simultaneously.
After ejaculation, the erection goes away.
What causes Premature Ejaculation?
As mentioned earlier, the climax and ejaculation happen simultaneously when the level of excitement goes at the maximum levels.
However, sometimes the synchronization gets disturbed, and ejaculation occurs before the sexual stimulation reaches the peak.
This condition is known as Premature Ejaculation. It is caused by a variety of reasons.
When sexologists get a case to treat, they look at the possible cause by conducting various examinations and tests.
Let’s have an overview of probable causes.
Psychological reasons
Sexologists say that in many patients the problem is caused by psychological factors. In such case, no physical problem surfaces after investigations. The probable psychological reasons are:
- Over excitement or over stimulation
- Inexperienced partners
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Novelty of the relationship
- Depression
If a person faces premature ejaculation after previous successful sex life, then it is called Acquired Premature Ejaculation or Secondary Premature Ejaculation.
This problem is often caused by psychological reasons.
Physiological reasons
Certain ailments and medical conditions also trigger the problem, e.g.
- Diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis
- Prostate problem
- Thyroid imbalance
- Drug abuse
Treatment of Premature Ejaculation
Topical creams
In case of intermittent occurrence of PE, doctors suggest topical creams that contain a mild numbing agent. The cream reduces sensitivity and helps in a prolonged sexual experience.
However, doctors recommend wearing a condom while using the numbing agent to avoid the transfer of the numbing effect to the partner.
Oral medication
There are certain medicines available that can slow down the process of ejaculation, but they should be taken under medical supervision as the side-effects could be devastating.
The drugs have a side-effect of the loss of libido. Thus, instead of delaying ejaculation, it may cause difficulty in arousal itself.
Some painkillers like Tramadol also delay ejaculation, but it is not recommended because of side-effects like vomiting, drowsiness and dry mouth.
Squeezing technique
It is a physical technique that can delay the climax. By squeezing the shaft of the penis before ejaculation one can extend the timing.
However, there is discomfort associated with this method. Also, urologists do not recommend it because of the harmful effects.
Mental distraction
As the excitement reaches the peak, one starts thinking something unrelated to the sexual activity.
It reduces the excitement level and stops ejaculation.
Again, this method is quite difficult to implement. It needs a lot of practice and patience.
Conclusion
It is a big worry when someone experiences premature ejaculation. Instead of considering it a ‘larger than life’ problem, one should seek the help of expert sexologists.
After diagnosing the problem, a right treatment plan can be derived. It helps in restoring the normal, healthy sex life once again.