Approximately 30 percent of all men experience some degree of premature ejaculation (PE), and not only can it be embarrassing, but it can also put strain on a relationship. Premature ejaculation is essentially an over-stimulation of the penile nerves that causes a man to ejaculate -- sometimes within seconds of being intimate with his partner.
• Learn the common causes of PE and what you can do to last longer in bed.
Pelvic exercises can increase the strength of the male pelvic floor and allow him to hold his erection for longer, as well as improve bladder function. The sensation of stopping urination mid-stream works the same muscles that control the pelvic floor. By performing a set of 15 pelvic floor exercises per day, holding each contraction for 10 to 15 seconds, a man should see a marked improvement in his sexual endurance within six to eight weeks; however, if there is no improvement after eight weeks, it could signify that other issues may be at play, and he should visit a doctor for consultation.
"There are both medical and psychological issues [that affect premature ejaculation]," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains. "You need to make sure there isn't a medical issue before you go down the psychological route."
Urologist Dr. Aaron Spitz's PE Tips:
Premature ejaculation is more common than erectile dysfunction, so if you are experiencing this, you are not alone! If you decide to set up a doctor's appointment to discuss your concerns about premature ejaculation, here are some tips:
• Premature ejaculation is commonly treated by urologists. If your doctor is unfamiliar with treating it, request a referral to a urologist.
• Ask for a blood test to check your testosterone and thyroid levels. Testosterone levels determine sex drive, so if your levels come back abnormal, the doctor will know how to treat you.
• Ask if topical testosterones are for you. There are creams and gels that can be applied to the skin to boost your libido if your testosterone is running low.
• Try penile pinching techniques. They are very effective, and if done correctly, they can help you last longer in bed. Your doctor may be able to refer you to a sex therapist who specializes in these techniques and can educate you on how to do them correctly.
• Ask your doctor about pills that can be taken daily to prolong your staying power. Paxil is a very effective pill that is prescribed for daily use.
• Ask your doctor about topical sprays to reduce your sensitivity during sex. This can be effective and is used on demand during intimacy. Sometimes, these sprays may affect your partner's sensation.
PSD502 and/or Promescent are the newest methods to treat premature ejaculation. Both drugs are formulations of two anesthetics, lidocaine and prilocaine, which work together to desensitize the genital area and delay ejaculation. Condom manufacturers are also using numbing agents in some of their products to help men last longer during intercourse. In the case of PSD502 and Promescent, the numbing sensation is delivered via an aerosol spray to the penis, and it test trials, the average time to ejaculate increased to four minutes, compared to just one minute or less with a placebo. These spray-on desensitizers, however, do not treat the causes of premature ejaculation, only the effects.
• Psychosexual therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer's method to treat PE.
• More sex tips from Dr. Ruth.