Premature Ejaculation
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for premature ejaculation. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need premature ejaculation care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
What Is Premature Ejaculation?
Ejaculation, or the sudden release of semen, occurs when the brain sends a signal to the penis that a certain level of stimulus has been reached. Ejaculation occurs in two phases: emission and expulsion.
- Emission: Sperm cells travel from the testicles to the prostate where they mix with seminal fluid to create semen.
- Expulsion: Semen is forced out from the tip of the penis by contracting muscles at its base.
Premature ejaculation (PE) describes ejaculation that occurs quickly, often in under two to three minutes, with minimal stimulation. This condition can lead to frustration and anxiety about sexual intercourse, which can in turn exacerbate the issue. PE is among the most common sexual conditions in the nation. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three men aged 18 to 29 experience difficulty related to premature ejaculation.
Causes of Premature Ejaculation
The exact cause of PE is not known. There may be biological, chemical or emotional contributors. Specific causes include:
- Psychological issues, such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Guilt
- Lack of confidence
- Relationship problems
- Stress
- Reduced serotonin levels
Aging is not a direct cause of PE. Yet, ED can be more common with age, which may be linked to lower serum testosterone levels.
Diagnosing Premature Ejaculation
An early sign of premature ejaculation is feeling a lack of control over when ejaculation occurs. PE is diagnosed with a comprehensive physical exam and a review of your medical history and sexual activity. Your physician may ask several questions related to PE and sexual intercourse to gain a more thorough picture of your specific condition and develop a treatment plan tailored for each patient.
Treating Premature Ejaculation
We provide many treatments for premature ejaculation including:
- Behavioral therapy
- Prescription medication
- Psychiatric therapy
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy uses exercises to help train the body against premature ejaculation. These exercises can help build a tolerance to sexual stimuli to prolong intercourse. Two examples of behavioral therapies are the squeeze method and the stop-start method.
- The squeeze method
- The stop-start method
Medication Therapy
A number of medications can be used to treat PE, including:
- Antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as escitalopram (Lexapro®), fluoxetine (Prozac®), citalopram (Celexa®), paroxetine (Paxil®) and sertraline (Zoloft®) or the tricyclic antidepressant clomipramine (Anafranil®), may help delay premature ejaculation.
- Anesthetic (numbing) creams and sprays can be applied to the head and shaft of the penis to delay ejaculation. Wait for 10 to 30 minutes for the anesthetic cream or spray to be absorbed or until you feel less sensitivity in your penis.
- Erectile dysfunction medications, including sildenafil (Viagra®), tadalafil (Cialis®), vardenafil (Levitra®) and Avanafil (Stendra®), have also been used to treat premature ejaculation, particularly in men with underlying erectile dysfunction.
Psychological Therapy
Psychological therapy addresses emotional issues that may be contributing to premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction. This therapy can help reduce anxiety and emotional discomfort related to sexual performance while increasing sexual confidence and mutual understanding between each patient and their partner.