Premature Ejaculation: What is it?
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual health concern experienced when a man ejaculates sooner than he or his partner would like, during sexual activity.
Men with Lifelong Premature Ejaculation typically average less than one minute from penetration to ejaculation. Men with Acquired Premature Ejaculation may last a little longer, up to 3 minutes, but they used to last longer. A man with Subjective Premature Ejaculation can last longer than 3 minutes and up to the average of 6 minutes from penetration to ejaculation, but is still dissatisfied.
Premature Ejaculation can be caused by a variety of physical and psychological factors, including muscle tension, hormonal imbalances, and performance anxiety.
What Treatments Are Available For Premature Ejaculation?
There are several treatment options available for men experiencing premature ejaculation. Some common approaches include:
- Medications: Certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and topical anaesthetics, can help to delay ejaculation.
- Pelvic health physiotherapy: This specialised form of men’s health physiotherapy focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue in the pelvic region. Pelvic health physical therapists use techniques such as education, relaxation exercises, electrical stimulation to the perineum, and pelvic floor muscle exercises to help patients manage their symptoms.
- Behavioural techniques: These techniques, such as the “stop-start” method and the “squeeze” method, involve stimulating the penis almost to the point of ejaculation and then stopping, or squeezing the base of the penis to temporarily stop ejaculation. These techniques can help men to learn to control their ejaculation and improve their stamina.
- Counselling or therapy: Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioural therapy, can be helpful for men who are experiencing premature ejaculation due to performance anxiety or other psychological issues.
- Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and drugs, may also help to improve
symptoms of premature ejaculation.
It is important to note that the most effective treatment for premature ejaculation will vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of the condition. A medical healthcare provider or a pelvic health physical therapist can help to determine the best treatment plan for you. Contact us today to see if one of our pelvic health physiotherapist can assist.
