Premature ejaculation is defined as ejaculation that occurs sooner than desired and causes distress to the patient or partner. The condition is common with prevalence around 20% in sexually active men.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes are not known.

When to Speak with a Urologist about Premature Ejaculation

You should speak to a Urologist about premature ejaculation if you or your partner are bothered by how rapidly you ejaculate during sexual activity.

What to Expect when Seeking Treatment

In addition to a history and physical examination, initial assessment includes a detailed sexual history. Further testing is usually not necessary.

Treatment Options

There are no FDA-approved medications for the specific treatment of rapid ejaculation, but several medications are used off-label with good effect. Your Urologist can also help coach you with behavioral techniques such as the squeeze technique and start/stop techniques.

Topical numbing agents such as numbing jelly or spray can be applied 30 minutes before sexual activity and then wiped clean before sexual activity to prevent vaginal numbness.

Oral medications including antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can be taken daily or as needed before sexual activity to delay ejaculation. Side effects include possibility of dry mouth and decreased sex drive. SSRIs should not be taken with other medications that cause serotonin release such as sumitriptan or lithium.