Women suffer during premature ejaculation too

'Women suffer during premature ejaculation too': Psychologist reveals the frustration of the partners of men who are 'too tied up in their own (short-lived) pleasure'

• Premature ejaculation in men can cause psychological stress in women

• 40% of women think ejaculation control is very important for satisfying sex

• Many say men who are worried about lasting long enough are distracted from focusing on their partner's pleasure and enjoyment during sex

• The women's frustrations can lead to relationships to breakdown

Premature ejaculation is well-known to blight the sex lives of millions of men.

But a new survey has confirmed what many women know to be true - it's not only their partners who suffer.

Swiss research found premature ejaculation in men also causes psychological stress in women - and not just because of the duration of intercourse.

Premature ejaculation in men can cause sexual frustration in women, new research shows

Andrea Burri, a clinical psychologist at the University of Zurich, surveyed more than 1,500 women from Mexico, Italy and South Korea.

She discovered that 40 per cent think ejaculation control is very important for satisfactory intercourse.

And many said the short duration of sex with a man with premature ejaculation causes sexual frustration.

However, interestingly, it was more common for the women to say the main cause of frustration was the man’s focus on delaying ejaculation.

They said this meant the men were distracted from the woman’s needs and desires.

For the majority of the women polled, satisfying sex did not only consist of sexual intercourse, but also included kissing, caressing and other forms of sexual stimulation.

Women say men who are worried about ejaculating too early are distracted from focusing on their pleasure

They said that if the man is primarily preoccupied with premature ejaculation and his performance, these needs are ignored. 

Dr Burri explained that if a man suffers from premature ejaculation, sex is increasingly about time rather than pleasure and that this can be frustrating and distressing for a woman.

She said that in the long run, these women may start to avoid sexual contact which can damage the relationship.

And added that many essentially harmonious relationships end in a split because of the woman’s bottled-up frustration.

‘After all, the consequences are often more far-reaching than simple sexual dissatisfaction as, in extreme cases, it poses a threat to the desire to have children if the man already ejaculates prior to actual intercourse.’

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2635188/Women-suffer-premature-ejaculation-Psychologist-reveals-frustration-partners-men-tied-short-lived-pleasure.html

New pill to tackle problem of men falling short in bed

Relationship troubles can often be caused by unhappy sex lives.

 Men whose love lives are falling short can try a new prescription pill to combat the problem.

The first drug made available in the UK for premature ejaculation, called Priligy, can reportedly triple the amount of time a man can last in bed.

It works by altering levels of serotonin in the brain, which should give men more control over ejaculation.

The pill is only available on the internet following a confidential online consultation with a doctor.

Priligy has been available and licensed for use in several European countries in recent months and is now coming to the UK following clinical tests on 6,000 men.

The treatment is sold in packs of three and costs £76 for a pack of three 30mg tablets.

It's designed to be taken between one and three hours before sex.

'Too embarrassed'

Premature ejaculation is thought to be the most common sexual disorder in men, affecting one in three men at some point in their lives.

Research has shown that sufferers avoid relationships and have a lower overall quality of life than men without the problem.

A recent European survey found that British, along with German, men are the most unhappy with their sex lives because of the problem.

Many men are also too embarrassed to discuss it with a loved one or even a doctor.

"By providing consultations online we hope to be able to help as many men as possible," said Nitin Makadia, head of male sexual health at Lloydspharmacy, which is running the service.

"Some men are understandably reluctant to discuss the problem with their GP so we are removing this barrier to treatment."

Doctors who are experts in sexual health assess patients' suitability for treatment through an online consultation. If appropriate, they make Priligy available for the patient to purchase.

The treatment is then sent securely through the post.

Priligy is not currently licensed in the UK, but clinicians can legally prescribe any 'unlicensed' medicine to patients if they consider it to be in the patient's best interest.

All doctors prescribing 'unlicensed' medicines are responsible for the patient's care and the consequences of the treatment.

Peter Baker, head of Men's Health Forum, said drugs should not be the first option for someone suffering from premature ejaculation.

"It's fantastic that this drug now exists and particularly if it gives men the confidence to acknowledge they have a problem. But we can't treat every problem with a drug, and there are a number of techniques men can try which can be effective."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8646075.stm

Premature ejaculation gene found

Men who suffer from premature ejaculation may be able to blame their genes, work suggests.

A study of nearly 200 Dutch men found those who climaxed too soon during intercourse had a version of a gene that controls the hormone serotonin.

Men with this version ejaculated twice as quickly as other men in the study.

Serotonin levels are what control the rapidity of ejaculation, say the Utrecht University researchers told the Journal of Sexual Medicine.

Not in the mind

The volunteers in Dr Marcel Waldinger's study were 89 men who had so-called primary premature ejaculation, meaning they had always suffered from it from their first sexual contact onwards.

For a month, their female partners were asked to use a stopwatch at home to measure the time until ejaculation each time they had intercourse.

The results were compared with 92 men with no history of such problems.

In the men with premature ejaculation, serotonin appeared to be less active between the nerves in the section of the brain that controls ejaculation.

Dr Waldinger says this low activity of the hormone means nerve signals do not transfer in the normal way in these men.

"This contradicts the idea, which has been common for years, that the primary form of premature ejaculation is a psychological disorder," he said.

Fast reactors

The findings also mean it might be possible to treat the condition with gene therapy, he said.

Paula Hall, a sexual psychotherapist for Relate, said: "Premature ejaculation is definitely not purely psychological.

"But there can be a psychological element. The acid test is how much control they have on their own. If the problem only occurs with their partner then it is more likely to be psychological."

She said men with primary premature ejaculation tended to be fast reactors generally.

"These men have very quick reflexes. They may be excellent at playing tennis or computer games, for example."

She said there was good evidence that serotonin was linked ejaculation and that researchers were developing drugs for the condition that prolong this hormone's action.

Currently there is no medication for the condition on the market.

Treatments involve counselling and the use of anti-depressants - not for depression but for their unexpected yet wanted side effect of delaying ejaculation.

A third of men are believed to suffer from premature ejaculation.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7657092.stm

Premature ejaculation: experts arrive at a definition

Premature ejaculation is a distressing condition that men usually suffer in silence

Experts in sexual medicine from around the world have, for the first time, defined lifelong and acquired premature ejaculation, paving the way for clear medical recognition and the development of better treatment.

Acquired premature ejaculation is when men who have had normal sexual function during their lifetime experience sex that lasts less than three minutes, while lifelong premature ejaculation is when sex lasts for a minute or less.

This is the first time the conditions have been given uniform classifications.

The new definition for acquired premature ejaculation specifically refers to intravaginal sex between a man and a woman that results in distress, frustration or avoidance of sexual intimacy.

Patrick Jern, post-doctoral researcher of psychology at Abo Akademi University, said premature ejaculation was a common sexual complaint.

“We don’t have a very good understanding of its causes,” he said.

Dr Jern said current diagnostic criteria for lifelong premature ejaculation were quite stringent, meaning a lot of men experiencing problems with their ejaculatory control did not fulfill them.

Lead author of the new guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of premature ejaculation, emeritus professor Stanley E. Althof, said previous definitions had been mostly based on expert opinion rather than evidence.

This had, in turn, affected research efforts because in designing their studies, researchers in the field had been using different definitions and groups.

“The experimental group for one author might be the control group for another paper. It all became very confusing,” he said.

Professor Althof said having a conservative, evidenced-based definition would allow recognition of the condition by regulatory agencies and development of new therapies.

“With a conservative-evidenced based definition, regulatory agencies will view premature ejaculation as a genuine condition, rather than a lifestyle disorder,” he said.

Dr Michael Lowy, a sexual health physician specialising in premature ejaculation who wasn’t involved in the recommendations, said the condition was very distressing but men usually suffered in silence.

Treatment guidelines include psychotherapy for men alone as well as couples; behavioural techniques that enable men to build up confidence; and online treatment programs. They also include a number of drugs such as oxytocin, topical anesthetics and a common class of antidepressants known as SSRIs, among others.

Dr Lowy said researchers had a lot of experience treating premature ejaculation with selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI), which raises serotonin levels and, as a side effect, delays ejaculation.

Due to a lack of research into populations of homosexual and bisexual men, acquired premature ejaculation has not been defined for men who have sex with men.

http://theconversation.com/premature-ejaculation-experts-arrive-at-a-definition-27023

Sexual conditions guide

Sexual problems in men

A sexual problem, or sexual dysfunction, refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity. The sexual response cycle has four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution.

Research suggests that sexual dysfunction is common. According to the Sexual Advice Association, one in 10 men experiences sexual problems, while about 50% of women report some degree of difficulty. Yet it is a topic that many people are hesitant to discuss. Fortunately, most cases of sexual dysfunction are treatable, so it is important to share your concerns with your partner and doctor.

What causes sexual problems?

• Physical causes: Many physical and/or medical conditions can cause problems with sexual function. These conditions include diabetes, heart and vascular (blood vessel) disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic diseases such as kidney or liver failure, and alcoholism and drug abuse. In addition, the side effects of certain medicines, including some antidepressant medication, can affect sexual desire and function.
• Psychological causes: These include work-related stress and anxiety, concern about sexual performance, marital or relationship problems, depression, feelings of guilt, and the effects of a past sexual trauma.

Who is affected by sexual problems?

Both men and women are affected by sexual problems. Sexual problems occur in adults of all ages. Among those commonly affected are those in the older population, which may be related to a decline in health associated with ageing.

How do sexual problems affect men?

The most common sexual problems in men are ejaculation disorders, erectile dysfunction, and inhibited sexual desire.

What are ejaculation disorders?

There are different types of ejaculation disorders, including:

• Premature ejaculation -- This refers to ejaculation that occurs before or soon after penetration.
• Inhibited or retarded ejaculation -- This is when ejaculation is slow to occur.
• Retrograde ejaculation -- This occurs when, at orgasm, the ejaculate is forced back into the bladder rather than through the urethra and out the end of the penis.

In some cases, premature and inhibited ejaculation are caused by a lack of attraction for a partner, past traumatic events and psychological factors, including a strict religious background that causes the person to view sex as sinful. Premature ejaculation is often is due to nervousness over how well a man will perform during sex. Certain medications, including some anti-depressants, may affect ejaculation, as can nerve damage to the spinal cord.

Retrograde ejaculation is common in males with diabetes who suffer from diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage). This is due to problems with the nerves in the bladder and the bladder neck that allow the ejaculate to flow backwards and into the bladder. In other men, retrograde ejaculation occurs after operations on the bladder neck or prostate, or after certain abdominal operations. In addition, certain medicines, particularly those used to treat mood disorders, may cause problems with ejaculation. This does not generally require treatment unless it impairs fertility.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Also known as impotence, erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to attain and/or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse. Causes of erectile dysfunction include diseases affecting blood flow, such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries); nerve disorders; psychological factors, such as stress, depression, and performance anxiety (nervousness over his ability to sexually perform); and injury to the penis. Chronic illness, certain medications, and a condition called Peyronie's disease (scar tissue in the penis) can also cause erectile dysfunction.

What is inhibited sexual desire?

Inhibited desire, or loss of libido, refers to a decrease in desire for, or interest in sexual activity. Reduced libido can result from physical or psychological factors. It has been associated with low levels of the hormone testosterone. It also may be caused by psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression; medical illnesses, such as diabetes and high blood pressure; certain medications, including some anti-depressants; and relationship difficulties.

How are male sexual problems diagnosed?

The doctor will most likely begin with a thorough history of symptoms. The doctor may arrange other tests to rule out any medical problems that may be contributing to the dysfunction. The doctor may refer you to other doctors, including a urologist (a doctor specialising in the urinary tract and male reproductive system), an endocrinologist (a doctor specialising in glandular disorders), a neurologist (a doctor specialising in disorders of the nervous system), sex therapists and other counsellors.

What tests are used to evaluate sexual problems?

Several tests can be used to evaluate the causes and extent of sexual problems. They include:

• Blood tests -- These tests are done to evaluate hormone levels and identify other possible underlying medical problems.
• Vascular assessment -- This involves an evaluation of the blood flow to the penis. A blockage in a blood vessel supplying blood to the penis may be contributing to erectile dysfunction.
• Sensory testing -- Particularly useful in evaluating the effects of diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), sensory testing measures the strength of nerve impulses in a particular area of the body.
• Nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity testing -- This test is used to monitor erections that occur naturally during sleep. This test can help determine if a man's erectile problems are due to physical or psychological causes.

How is male sexual dysfunction treated?

Many cases of sexual dysfunction can be corrected by treating the underlying physical or psychological problems. Treatment strategies may include the following:

• Medical treatment -- This involves treatment of any physical problem that may be contributing to a man's sexual dysfunction.
• Medication -- Medicines may help improve sexual function in men by increasing blood flow to the penis. Intra-penile injections and urethral pellets may also be used.
• Hormones -- Men with low levels of testosterone may benefit from hormone supplementation (testosterone replacement therapy).
• Psychological therapy -- Therapy with a trained counsellor can help a person address feelings of anxiety, fear or guilt that may have an impact on sexual function.
• Mechanical aids -- Aids such as vacuum devices and penile implants may help men with erectile dysfunction.
• Education and communication -- Education about sex and sexual behaviours and responses may help a man overcome his anxieties about sexual performance. Open dialogue with your partner about your needs and concerns also helps to overcome many barriers to a healthy sex life.

Can sexual problems be cured?

The success of treatment for sexual dysfunction depends on the underlying cause of the problem. The outlook is good for dysfunction that is related to a treatable or reversible physical condition. Mild dysfunction that is related to stress, fear, or anxiety often can be successfully treated with counselling, education, and improved communication between partners.

Can sexual problems be prevented?

While sexual problems cannot always be prevented, dealing with the underlying causes of the dysfunction can help you better understand and cope with the problem when it occurs. There are some things you can do to help maintain good sexual function:

• Follow your doctor's treatment plan for any medical/health conditions.
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Stop smoking.
• Deal with any problems with drug abuse - drugs such as cocaine can be responsible.
• Deal with any emotional or psychological issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety. Get treatment as needed.
• Increase communication with your partner. 

When should I seek medical advice?

Many men experience a problem with sexual function from time to time. However, when the problems are persistent, they can cause distress for the man and his partner, and have a negative impact on their relationship. If you consistently experience sexual function problems, seek medical advice for evaluation and treatment.

http://www.webmd.boots.com/sexual-conditions/guide/mens-sexual-problems 

Fast facts about premature ejaculation

Here are some key points about premature ejaculation.

• Premature ejaculation is considered a form of sexual dysfunction only when a man has, for a considerable time, almost always found himself ejaculating before or very soon after sexual penetration, and is upset about this. The disorder is relatively rare.
• Less worrying forms of ejaculating before the desired moment are common, and the female partner may be less concerned about the problem than the man.
• Being unable to control ejaculation is rarely due to a medical condition, although doctors will need to rule this out, including checking for erectile dysfunction.
• Most cases of premature ejaculation have psychological causes - ranging from common anxieties about sex and relationships resulting in a temporary problem, to more serious psychological factors being possibly responsible for a persistent problem.
• Premature ejaculation can lead to symptoms of secondary effects such as distress, embarrassment, relationship stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Treatment options range from reassurance after a doctor's visit that the problem can go away in time, through home methods of 'training' the timing of ejaculation (alone or with the help of a trusted partner), to talking therapies and couples counselling.
• Drug options are available, although none with an official licence to help against premature ejaculation.
• Doctors may carefully consider offering 'off-label' prescription of a certain type of antidepressant, which can be helpful, but can have side-effects. Local anaesthetic creams applied to the penis can also be offered for men to try out.

How many men get premature ejaculation?

Estimates of the prevalence of men who think they have had premature ejaculation range between 15% and 30% - these are figures of 'self-reported' prevalence obtained through surveys.

But when the estimates look at how many men have the true diagnosis of a genuinely troublesome problem, the prevalence is much lower.

However, premature ejaculation in general remains the most common form of male sexual dysfunction - more common than erectile dysfunction.The most persistent problem in men who have hardly ever experienced sex without ejaculating prematurely - known as primary or lifelong PE - is the least common form, affecting around 2% of men.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/188527.php