If any of these three aspects applies to you, you may be suffering from premature ejaculation. This problem can be embarrassing for a lot of men, who may be tempted to simply ignore it and try to cope without seeking help. However, not dealing with the issue could result in relationship and self-esteem problems, and even go as far as depression and anxiety.
It’s important to realise that premature ejaculation is not an uncommon problem - some studies have estimated that as many as a third of men experience this problem at some time in their lives. A Pharmacy2U Online Doctor consultation offers you a confidential online assessment of your condition and where appropriate, prescription-only treatments can be prescribed. Please note, our service is not suitable for men under the age of 18 years of age or over 65 years of age.
What causes premature ejaculation?
The exact causes of premature ejaculation are not known. For many years, it was thought to be a psychological condition but it is now known that it can be caused by physical problems associated with serotonin signals in the brain that control ejaculation. Genetic differences are related to premature ejaculation through their effects on these brain signals.
Introduction to Premature Ejaculation
How is premature ejaculation treated?
The aim of any treatment is to restore control over ejaculation and so bring back the pleasure of sex for the man and his partner. There are a number of different ways to treat this condition, including:
Behavioural techniques
Such techniques are normally taught by sexual therapists. They usually involve stopping stimulation just before ejaculation and allowing arousal to reduce, or squeezing the head of the penis to lessen arousal. These techniques can take months to become effective.
Psychological techniques
Counselling sessions can help some men to learn to gain control over their ejaculation and can also help with depression or anxiety.
Reduced penis sensitivity
Local anaesthetics can be used to remove sensation from the penis and so be effective in delaying ejaculation. Condoms with lidocaine inside them are available, and lidocaine is can also be applied as a spray onto the penis. EMLA cream contains prilocaine and lidocaine, and is highly effective at reducing penile sensitivity. While this is an effective treatment, the reduced sensitivity can lessen the enjoyment of sex. Priligy (dapoxetine) is a drug licenced specifically to treat premature ejaculation, and is an excellent option for men living with this condition.
Prescription