Many men will suffer a sexual mishap at some point in their lives and that is totally normal. However, when these issues become a regular occurrence, they can have devastating consequences for the individual’s self-esteem, self-confidence, and quality of life. One of those issues that can be both distressing and embarrassing is premature ejaculation or PE. But what exactly is premature ejaculation? Why does it happen? What are the consequences of PE? And most importantly, is there a cure for it?
Premature Ejaculation Defined
By definition, PE refers to emitting semen out of the body sooner than wanted during sexual intercourse. PE is probably the most common sexual complaint in men and it is estimated that as many as 1 out of 3 people report having it at some point in their lives. The good news is that PE is not dangerous or a cause of concern if it only happens sporadically. However, you might be diagnosed with PE if these conditions are present:
- Always or nearly always ejaculate within 1 to 3 minutes of sexual intercourse
- Are not able to delay ejaculation all or most times
- PE leads to feelings of distress, frustration and avoidance of sexual activity and intimacy
Learn more about premature ejaculation here. Book an appointment to get sex therapy for men to treat this issue with our specialists here.
Why Do Men Suffer from PE?
Some men have suffered from PE all of their lives, ever since their first sexual experience. This is called Lifelong premature ejaculation. For others, PE develops later in life and after not having any issues with ejaculation previously, which is called Acquired PE. Although the causes for PE are not well understood, most likely it occurs due to psychological and biological factors.
Psychological factors include early sexual experiences in which the person was always rushing to reach orgasm and “trained” themselves to ejaculate fast after sexual activity had begun. Shame and guilt surrounding sexual activity, especially early in life, may also contribute to PE. Performance anxiety, and worrying about finishing too fast may exacerbate and perpetuate PE. Sex therapy for men is key to recovering confidence addressing premature ejaculation and enhancing sexual endurance.
Biological causes of PE may include genetics, irregular hormone levels, brain chemical imbalance, prostate issues, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) may also contribute indirectly, as men with ED may rush to reach orgasm if they fear that their erection will be short-lived during sexual intercourse.
Focused shockwave therapy for ED is a great method to address this issue effectively by the side of a professional health and sexuality clinic.
Consequences of Premature Ejaculation
Although PE is not a life-threatening condition, it may lead to a lot of frustration and heartache. PE may put stress in the relationship and lead to conflict, feelings of inadequacy on both partners, and sex avoidance, thus weakening the connection and closeness of the partners. PE may also lead to fertility issues, especially if ejaculation and orgasm happen before successful vaginal penetration. In general, men with PE report that it has an impact on their overall quality of life. Sex therapy for men is recommended to treat PE.
Looking for a sex therapist in Plano, Irving, or Dallas? Schedule an appointment with our professionals here.
The Cure for PE
PE is a complex issue that often requires a comprehensive approach to solve. Nonetheless, the most important element needed to overcome PE is the commitment and consistency of the sufferer. Here are some ways to mitigate PE:
- Slow down: Instead of rushing to reach climax, focus on the whole body experience of sex and put an emphasis on pleasure. Pleasure is not only felt during orgasm; it is something you can and should enjoy throughout any sexual activity.
- Practice edging: Edging is the practice of stimulating, stopping short of ejaculation, waiting a few minutes, and restarting sexual activity. Does edging help with premature ejaculation? Yes. Edging is done multiple times until ejaculation and orgasm are desired. Edging can retrain your brain and body to delay climax.
- Breathe: Breathing for relaxation can relieve tension and allow for anxiety to lower during sex. Practice relaxation breathing throughout the day and use this skill during sexual activity.
- Communicate with your partner: Do not be afraid to tell your partner about PE and to reassure them that it is not their fault. Ask them for what you need during sex to avoid ejaculating too fast.
- Over-the-counter remedies: There are some numbing sprays and gels that may slow down the ejaculatory response. However, these may lessen sensation and pleasure for both you and your partner so use with caution or with a condom. Some men also wear condoms during sexual intercourse to help with PE.
Contact our men clinic to get professional aid and enhance your sexual experience.
When to Seek Professional Help from a Men’s Wellness Center or Clinic
If you have been suffering from PE for some time, tried different remedies on your own with no satisfactory results, are feeling distressed because of it, your relationship is suffering and you are finding yourself avoiding sexual activity due to PE, it may be a good idea to talk to a professional men clinic. There are treatment options that suit your particular situation and goals and your sexual health and happiness are worth the investment in a health and sexuality clinic. At Texas Sexual Health we work with professional treatments and sex therapists in Plano, Irving, and Dallas.
PE may be common but it does not have to be permanent or a deterrent to great sex. Try new things, be open about PE, and don’t be afraid to seek help.