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Glossary: Premature Ejaculation (PE)

Premature Ejaculation (PE)

Definition

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a male sexual dysfunction characterized by ejaculation that occurs sooner than desired during sexual activity, typically within about one minute of vaginal penetration, and before the person wishes it to happen[1][3]. This condition can cause distress and frustration for both partners involved in sexual activity[3].

Types

Lifelong PE: Occurs from the first sexual experience and persists throughout life[5].

Acquired PE: Develops after a period of normal ejaculatory function[5].

Symptoms

  • Ejaculation that routinely occurs with minimal sexual stimulation[3]
  • Decreased sexual pleasure due to poor ejaculatory control[3]
  • Feelings of guilt, embarrassment, or frustration[3]
  • Persistent pattern of ejaculation within approximately 1 minute of vaginal penetration[1]

Causes

PE can be attributed to various factors, including:

Psychological factors:

  • Performance anxiety
  • Stress
  • Depression
  • Relationship problems[4]

Biological factors:

  • Abnormal hormone levels
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Inflammation of the prostate gland[3][4]

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically based on:

  • Patient's sexual history
  • Physical examination (in some cases)
  • Adherence to diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the DSM-5[1][3]

Treatment Options

  • Behavioral techniques (e.g., start-stop method, squeeze technique)
  • Counseling or psychotherapy
  • Medications (e.g., SSRIs, topical anesthetics)
  • Combination of therapeutic approaches[6][7]

Prevalence

PE affects approximately 30% to 40% of men at some point in their lives[6][7].

Impact

  • Can cause significant distress and negatively affect quality of life
  • May lead to relationship problems and sexual dissatisfaction
  • Potential fertility issues in some cases[8]

Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premature_ejaculation
[2] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/premature-ejaculation
[3] https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/premature-ejaculation-a-to-z
[4] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/premature-ejaculation
[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6732885/
[6] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15627-premature-ejaculation
[7] https://www.webmd.com/sex/what-is-premature-ejaculation
[8] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premature-ejaculation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354900

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