Premature ejaculation can be upsetting and even embarrassing, but it’s also incredibly common. Affecting as many as 40% of men at some point during their lives, premature ejaculation is considered the most common sexual disorder among men.
Still, knowing it’s common doesn’t necessarily make it easier to deal with. Feelings of frustration, shame, or disappointment can affect your confidence and your relationship. The good news: Premature ejaculation is highly treatable, and Alfred Shtainer, MD, FACS, and the team at Adult and Pediatric Urology are here to help you find a solution that works for you.
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a condition that causes ejaculation to occur sooner than anticipated or desired — often with minimal stimulation. For some men, PE can be a constant, initially showing up since their earliest sexual experiences. For others, PE develops later on, or it may happen only in certain situations.
Although the exact cause isn’t always clear, both physical and psychological factors can play a role. Anxiety, stress, depression, guilt, and relationship problems are common emotional influences. Medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, injuries, substance misuse, and even the natural effects of aging can also contribute.
Premature ejaculation doesn’t just affect physical intimacy. It can also take a toll on self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life. Many men begin to anticipate PE even before intimate contact, increasing their anxiety and, perhaps ironically, making the problem worse. Over time, this cycle of stress and frustration can lead to avoidance of intimacy altogether.
Taking a proactive approach to PE is the key to finding an effective solution. Because there are different types and causes of PE, accurate diagnosis is essential for finding a treatment that works. That begins with a comprehensive exam and an honest, open discussion of your specific symptoms. Once your exam and evaluation are complete, Dr. Shtainer develops a personalized plan which might include:
Psychological counseling and even sex surrogacy may help in specific circumstances. Many men find a combination of treatments works best.
In addition to medical care, Dr. Shtainer may recommend at-home practices to help manage PE symptoms. Stress management techniques like breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help reduce overall anxiety.
Condoms and over-the-counter products help decrease penile sensitivity and prolong sexual activity when used with a doctor’s supervision. Behavioral techniques like the “start-and-stop” technique or the “pause-and-squeeze” method can help, too, by teaching you how to control sensations during sex.
Personalized care is important for finding a PE treatment that’s effective, but treatment only works when you follow your plan. Regular follow-up visits also play an important role, helping us monitor your results and fine-tune your plan and make adjustments as needed.
Premature ejaculation is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. With consistency and support, you can enjoy a healthier sex life, greater self-confidence, and a better quality of life overall.
To learn how we can help you find a solution that works for your needs, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Shtainer and the team at Adult and Pediatric Urology in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, New York, today.
