Premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation without filter or taboo

Believe it or not, premature ejaculation (PE) is still taboo in 2024. Surprising, isn't it? We'd like to think that mentalities have evolved and that, as a society, we've moved beyond certain stereotypes of toxic masculinity, but prejudices die hard. That's one of the reasons why this disorder is poorly treated, as many men don't even dare talk about it. Yet, it's a pretty widespread problem, affecting 1 in 3 men.

Here's a complete guide to understanding premature ejaculation: definition, causes, consequences and solutions, you'll know it all. The word to remember here: SOLUTION because there are several treatments available. It is possible to remedy or at least considerably improve the negative effects of a premature ejaculation.

The first and most important step is to talk about it so that it can be treated. This decision is the beginning of a journey towards a fully satisfying sexuality.

Premature ejaculation: between personal experience and duration

Let's start by defining what premature ejaculation is according to the scientific literature. Previously established on a time reference, i.e. less than one minute from the start of penetration to the moment of ejaculation, this aspect has been abandoned to include a more subjective notion based on lived experience.  

So if refers to the involuntary emission of sperm occurring earlier than desired during sexual intercourse. Diagnosis is also based on psychological impacts, such as personal or relational distress experienced.

Primary, secondary or natural PE

There are three defined types of premature ejaculation (PE): primary, secondary and natural, as well as adjacent causes.

Primary PE is a difficulty that arises at the start of active sexual life. It may occur for several reasons:

1. hypersensitivity of the ejaculatory reflex or of the penis head
2. genetic or hereditary factors
3. serotonin levels
4. early sexual experiences
5. performance anxiety
6. communication problems
7. relationship problems
8. inadequate sex education

Secondary PE develops after a period of normal functioning. It can be caused by :

1. health problems
2. side effects of medication
3. trauma or stressful event
4. circumstantial performance anxiety
5. relationship difficulties
6. depression
7. poor sexual communication
8. hormonal changes

Finally, natural PE refers to variation in sexual response. Researchers mention that some men naturally have a faster sexual response without there being any particular factors that explain it.

When making love makes you feel bad.

Premature ejaculation has several negative effects for men who suffer from it, both physically and psychologically. They may experience a decrease in self-confidence, particularly in sexual contexts, which can lower their overall self-esteem.

Anticipation of the problem leads to stress and anxiety before and during sex, often contributing to aggravating the problem. Some men avoid sex overall to avoid performance anxiety and expose themselves to personal disappointment.

Relational difficulties are frequent. Partners experience frustration, misunderstanding, or even distress if the issue is not addressed or treated. Similarly, the disorder leads to frustration and feelings of incompetence in the man, especially if he perceives it as a failure on his part. As sexual intercourse is interrupted prematurely, sexual satisfaction is compromised for both the man and his partner.

As you can see, premature ejaculation impairs overall quality of life, affecting the emotional and psychological well-being of men who live with this reality. This is why professional support, whether from a sexologist, therapist or healthcare professional, is advisable to minimize the harmful impacts and find suitable solutions.

Finding pleasure back: treatments for premature ejaculation.

The causes of premature ejaculation are varied, which means that there is no single solution that works for everyone. The various treatments aim to improve the duration of the sexual act, satisfaction for the patient and his or her partner, as well as an overall positive impact on the quality of sexual life.

Here are the most common treatments:

1. Medication: certain drugs, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like dapoxetine, can be prescribed. These drugs can have a significant success rate in prolonging the time to ejaculation.

1. Behavioural therapy: cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) aims to modify thought patterns and behaviours associated with PE. Studies have indicated that CBT can be effective, with notable improvements in some patients.

1. Sex therapy: sex therapy sessions, which may involve the partner's participation, are designed to address the psychological and relational aspects of PE. These therapies have shown positive results for many couples.

1. Relaxing and physical techniques: specific techniques, such as the “stop and go” technique or the compression technique, help men develop better ejaculatory control. Meditation, breathing exercises or strengthening the pelvic floor generally increase sexual stamina.

1. Combining methods: often, a combined approach, for example, the use of medication in addition to cognitive-behavioural therapy, is more effective than using a single method.

Treatment success rates vary according to the methods used and the individual characteristics of each person.  Treatment success also depends on regularity and perseverance in implementing therapeutic recommendations.

Complementary tools to delay ejaculation

Several sex toys or products are used to delay ejaculation. Although these accessories do not offer in-depth treatment, they can support efforts to extend intercourse.  Some men find that using a cock ring can delay ejaculation by reducing penile sensitivity. Topical analgesics also help to improve sexual stamina. Floravi has developed a desensitizing vaporizer, a complementary product to previous strategies.

By breaking the silence and seeking professional support, men can not only treat premature ejaculation, but also restore their confidence, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve their intimate and sexual relationships. The key to success lies in awareness, acceptance of the help available and commitment to the healing process. By talking openly about this disorder, we are collectively helping to change mindsets and eliminate this taboo around men's sexual health.

Sources : Canadien men’s health Fondation, Sex&U