Premature ejaculation in men,is a common but sensitive sexual health problem that many men face at some point in their lives. Involuntary ejaculation shortly after the start of sexual intercourse can negatively affect both individual self-confidence and relationships with partners. This condition is often caused by physical, psychological or a combination of both factors. Fortunately, nowadays the causes of premature ejaculation are understood and can be effectively managed with various solutions. In this article, we will discuss everything from the causes of premature ejaculation to treatment options.
How is Premature Ejaculation Diagnosed?
Premature ejaculation is diagnosed not only by the individual expressing the problem, but also by certain criteria and medical evaluations. This problem is usually defined as a continuous or repetitive experience of ejaculation in less than 1 minute from the start of sexual intercourse. However, not only the duration, but also the individual's inability to control this situation and the sexual dissatisfaction experienced are among the important criteria in the diagnostic process.
In order to make a diagnosis, a detailed history of the patient is first taken. At this stage, questions such as the duration of the patient's sexual life, how long the problem has been going on, whether it is experienced in all sexual relationships or in certain situations are asked. Communication with the partner, relationship dynamics and previously tried solutions, if any, are also evaluated.
To determine whether there is a physical cause, doctors may order some medical tests to look for hormonal imbalances, prostate disorders or neurological problems. However, psychological factors can also have a serious impact on premature ejaculation, so conditions such as anxiety, stress, relationship problems or performance anxiety should also be considered.
Why Does Premature Ejaculation Occur? Main Causes
Premature ejaculation is one of the most common sexual dysfunctions experienced by men and can occur for many different reasons. Both physiological and psychological factors may underlie this condition. Correctly identifying the source of the problem is of great importance in order to create an effective treatment plan. So, what are the main causes of premature ejaculation?
1. Psychological Factors
Psychological causes are quite common in cases of premature ejaculation, especially in young people. Performance anxiety, lack of self-confidence, stress, relationship problems and previous negative sexual experiences can trigger this condition. Depression and anxiety disorders can also increase the risk of premature ejaculation.
2. Physiological Causes
Some physical health problems can also lead to premature ejaculation. In particular, overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), prostate infections, nervous system disorders and hormonal imbalances have been linked to this problem. At the same time, hypersensitivity of the nerves in the head of the penis is also linked to premature ejaculation.
3. Lack of Sexual Experience
At the beginning of sexual life, factors such as excitement due to inexperience, lack of control and not knowing the body well enough can cause premature ejaculation. Over time, this can become permanent and exacerbate the problem by creating psychological pressure.
4. Relationship Dynamics
Emotional disconnection, sexual disharmony or communication problems with the partner may also be effective on premature ejaculation. Lack of clear expression of sexual expectations or a lack of understanding on the part of the partner may cause the man to feel pressured.
5. Neurochemical Imbalances
Some research suggests that low levels of serotonin in the brain may play a role in premature ejaculation. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter in the regulation of sexual function, and imbalances in this level can make it difficult to control the ejaculatory reflex.
Treatment Methods for Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation is an important problem that directly affects men's quality of life and sexual life. Fortunately, today this problem can be successfully controlled with different treatment methods. The treatment process is planned individually according to the cause and severity of premature ejaculation. Here are the most common premature ejaculation treatment methods applied today:
1. Behavioral and Sexual Therapy Methods
Behavioral techniques focus on improving one's ability to control to prolong ejaculation. “Start-stop” and ‘squeeze’ techniques are the most well-known methods in this field. Sexual therapy, on the other hand, is a special therapy process that is applied with a sexual therapist and aims to increase the awareness of the person's sexual life. It is especially effective in cases of premature ejaculation based on psychological reasons.
2. Psychological Support and Counseling
Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, lack of self-confidence and relationship problems must be addressed in the treatment process. Individual psychotherapy or couples therapy can help overcome these problems and relieve the pressure on sexual intercourse.
3. Medication Therapy
In premature ejaculation treatments, some antidepressant drugs (especially SSRIs - selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) can be used in low doses to prolong ejaculation. There are also special tablets that are taken shortly before intercourse. However, medication must be administered under the supervision of a specialist, because the effects and side effects may differ for each individual.
4. Topical Creams and Sprays
Creams or sprays containing local anesthetics applied to the penile area reduce sensitivity by temporarily numbing the nerve endings. This can prolong ejaculation time. However, care should be taken as excessive use of these products may reduce sexual pleasure.
5. Natural and Herbal Supplements
Some men benefit from herbal supplements for premature ejaculation. Substances such as ginseng, zinc supplements, L-arginine can help improve sexual performance. However, these products are not always scientifically based and their effects may vary from person to person. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist before usin
The Role of Psychological Factors on Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation is a sexual dysfunction closely related not only to physical but also to psychological factors. Especially in cases that start at a young age, psychological causes may be the main source of the problem. Stress, anxiety, performance anxiety, lack of self-confidence and past negative sexual experiences can trigger premature ejaculation by making it difficult to control the ejaculation process.
Men who experience high levels of anxiety during intercourse often find it difficult to control their body's responses. This can cause the ejaculation reflex to occur earlier. Excitement and lack of control, especially in the first sexual experiences, can become an established problem over time. In addition, relationship-based problems such as communication problems with the partner, lack of clear expression of sexual expectations or emotional incompatibility can increase psychological pressure and fuel premature ejaculation.
In premature ejaculation problems of psychological origin, internal conflicts and subconscious fears play an important role. For example, social pressure, false beliefs about sexuality or strict moral rules may prevent a person from being comfortable with sexuality. This leads to mental tension and consequently premature ejaculation.
The most important step in the treatment process in such cases is to recognize the psychological dimension of the problem. Sexual therapy, individual psychotherapy and, when necessary, couples therapy can greatly alleviate the problem of premature ejaculation by strengthening the person's relationship with both himself and his partner. Mindfulness exercises, relaxation techniques and sexual education are among the psychological approaches that support treatment.
