What is the definition of Premature Ejaculation?
Ejaculation is the bodily release of sperm. Premature ejaculation (PE) occurs when ejaculation occurs during sex sooner than the man or his partner desires. Rare PE is also referred to as rapid ejaculation, premature climax, and early ejaculation. PE might not warrant concern. It can be frustrating if it diminishes the pleasure of sex and negatively affects relationships. However, if it occurs frequently and causes problems, your healthcare provider can assist you.
In the United States, about one-third of men aged 18 to 59 have PE problems. It is commonly believed that the issue is psychological, but biology may also play a role.
How does ejaculation function?
The ejaculatory process is governed by the central nervous system. When men are sexually stimulated, spinal cord and brain signals are sent. When men reach a certain level of arousal, their brains send signals to their reproductive organs. This results in the release of sperm through the penis (ejaculation).
The two phases of ejaculation are emission and expulsion.
Phase 1: Emission
Sperm moves from the testicles to the prostate and combines with seminal fluid to form semen during ejection. The vasa deferentia are tubes that transport sperm from the testicles to the base of the penis via the prostate. When referring to just one of these tubes, the term vas deferens is used.
Phase 2 consists of Expulsion
When the muscles at the base of the penis contract, expulsion occurs. This forces the sperm to leave the penis. Typically, ejaculation and orgasm (climax) occur simultaneously. Some men reach their sexual peak without ejaculating. After this step, erections usually disappear.
Erectile Dysfunction and Premature Ejaculation (ED)
Sometimes, PE is a problem for men with erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction or ED). This occurs when men are unable to achieve or maintain a sufficient erection for sexual activity. Since an erection disappears after ejaculation, it can be difficult to distinguish between PE and ED. ED should be addressed initially. Once the ED is treated, precocious ejaculation may no longer be a concern.
Causes\sSerotonin
Although the precise cause of PE is unknown, serotonin may be involved. Serotonin is an endogenous chemical produced by nerves. High serotonin levels in the brain lengthen the time until ejaculation. Low levels can shorten the time required to ejaculate and result in PE.
Psychiatric Problems
PE may involve mental health issues such as:
- temporary depression
- stress
- guilt
- unrealistic expectations regarding sexual performance
- a history of sexual repression
- a general lack of confidence
- relationship difficulties
- Managing emotional issues is often beneficial.
Related Matters
Physical Education and Age
Early ejaculation can occur at any age. Aging is not a direct cause of erectile dysfunction, but it does affect erections and ejaculation. Erections in older men may not be as strong or as large. Erections may not be as long-lasting before ejaculation. The sensation that ejaculation is imminent may be diminished. These changes can cause an older man to naturally ejaculate earlier.
Physical Education and Your Partner
With PE, you may experience a loss of intimacy with your sexual partner. You may experience anger, shame, and distress, causing you to withdraw from your partner. Premature ejaculation affects not only you but also your partner. Your partner may be distressed by the shift in sexual intimacy. PE can result in partners feeling less connected, hurt, or distant.
Discussing the issue is an essential step. Counseling for couples or sex therapy can be beneficial. Exercises such as the squeeze technique may aid you and your partner in maintaining an erection (see the treatment section of this article for details). The most important thing for a couple to learn is how to relax. Worry (such as performance anxiety) only worsens physical education.
