Premature Ejaculation: What causes it and what you can do
Premature ejaculation is one of the most common sexual dysfunction issues men experience – you are not alone! About 30 per cent of individuals with a penis experience what is also known as “rapid ejaculation” at some point. It can be temporary or a longer-term issue. Let’s look into what is defined as premature ejaculation:
Defining premature ejaculation
Ejaculating quickly isn’t always considered a problem for many sexually active individuals. Premature ejaculation typically means climaxing within one minute after sexual intercourse begins. When it occurs regularly, it may cause emotional distress and negatively affect intimate relationships.
What Causes Premature Ejaculation and How Ejaculation Control Therapy Helps
Due to a lack of research, it is not yet clear what is causing premature ejaculation. There are, however, both physical and mental health factors contributing to it:
Physical health causes
High stress levels can increase the risk of sexual problems like premature ejaculation in men. Experiencing childhood sexual trauma or being raised with strict sexual beliefs may cause lasting fear. This fear often heightens stress levels and impacts sexual performance over time.
Mental health causes
Feeling anxious about performing during sex or intimacy can significantly impact sexual functioning. While more research is needed, anxiety and depression both appear to play important roles. The medications used to treat these conditions may also affect arousal levels and ejaculation timing.
The Role of Stress and Past Experiences
High stress levels can also contribute to sexual problems like premature ejaculation. Men who experienced traumatic sexual incidents in their childhood or were raised with strict beliefs about sex might experience fear, which naturally increases stress levels.
Ejaculation Control Therapy and Body Image Stress
Having trouble relaxing during intercourse, overthinking your body, or feeling pressure can increase anxiety. These factors may contribute to premature ejaculation and reduce your ability to stay in control.
What can be done?
To address the physical aspect, you should consult a urologist for a thorough assessment. This can help determine whether your reproductive organs are functioning properly. If you’re not ready for a medical consultation, over-the-counter products are also available as initial support options:
Desensitizing Products That May Help
Certain creams and sprays can reduce sensitivity. Benzocaine wipes help delay the ejaculation response. Condoms with benzocaine reduce stimulation during intercourse.
Medication Options for Severe Cases
Erectile dysfunction medication can help treat premature ejaculation in some cases. A doctor may prescribe Cialis/Viagra to improve control and performance. Always consult a medical professional before starting treatment, as effects vary between individuals and situations.
Practical Techniques to Try
In addition, you can try techniques like masturbating before intercourse to delay ejaculation. You might also stop stimulation each time ejaculation feels near to regain control. However, research on the effectiveness of these techniques remains limited.
Ejaculation Control Therapy for Mental Health
Counselling or therapy sessions can offer significant support for individuals experiencing premature ejaculation and related distress. Premature ejaculation often leads to frustration, disappointment, and emotional tension between both sexual partners in a relationship. Couples therapy may improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional intimacy during the treatment process. Medical treatment can enhance therapy by supporting sustainable progress toward better long-term sexual health and functioning.
Ejaculation Control Therapy: A Treatable Issue
You can treat premature ejaculation whether it stems from physical, mental, or combined conditions. By involving your partner and seeking therapy, you address ejaculation control more effectively. With proper support and treatment, you boost confidence and enhance sexual satisfaction over time.
Ejaculation Control Therapy: Written by Franziska Richter
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Franziska Richter is a transcultural counsellor with the Willingness Team, offering counselling sessions to individuals and couples. She is particularly interested in sexuality, relationship issues, trauma, emotional wellbeing, and general mental health.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15627-premature-ejaculation
https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/conditions/8/premature_ejaculation
