Delayed Ejaculation; Symptoms, Causes, Treatments And Prevention

Delayed ejaculation — sometimes called impaired ejaculation — is a condition in which it takes an extended period of s*xual stimulation for a man to reach s*xual climax and release semen from the man-hood (release). Some men with delayed ejaculation are unable to release at all. Delayed ejaculation can be temporary or a lifelong problem. Possible causes of delayed ejaculation include certain chronic health conditions, surgeries and medications. Treatment for delayed ejaculation depends on the underlying cause. It’s normal for men to have delayed ejaculation from time to time. Delayed ejaculation is only a problem if it’s ongoing or causes stress for you or your partner. Symptoms: Some men with delayed ejaculation need 30 minutes or more of s*xual stimulation to have an climax and release, or they may not be able to release at all (an-ejaculation). In the most common form of delayed ejaculation, a man can’t reach climax during s*xual intercourse — but can release with oral or manual stimulation of the man-hood. Some men can release only when self servicing. Delayed climax is divided into the following types based on symptoms: Lifelong vs. acquired. With lifelong delayed ejaculation, the problem is present from the time a male reaches s*xual maturity. Acquired delayed ejaculation occurs after a period of normal s*xual functioning. Generalized vs. situational. Generalized delayed ejaculation isn’t limited to certain s*x partners or certain kinds of stimulation. Situational delayed ejaculation occurs only under certain circumstances. These categories help in diagnosing an underlying cause, and determining what might be the most effective treatment. When to see a doctor. Your family doctor is a good place to start when you have delayed ejaculation. See your doctor if: Delayed ejaculation is an issue for you or your partner. You have another known health problem that may be linked to delayed ejaculation, or you take medications that could be causing the problem. You have other symptoms along with delayed ejaculation that may or may not seem related. Causes: Delayed ejaculation can result from certain chronic health conditions, surgeries and medications. Or it may be caused by substance abuse or a mental health concern, such as depression, anxiety or stress. In many cases, delayed ejaculation is due to a combination of physical and psychological concerns Treatments: To find the best treatment for you, the doctor will first need to determine whether your delayed ejaculation is due to an underlying medical condition, a psychological issue or another concern. Delayed ejaculation treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include taking a medication or making changes to medications you currently take, undergoing psychological counseling, or addressing alcohol abuse or illegal drug use. Medications: Medication may be a treatment option, particularly if you’re taking an antidepressant that’s causing the problem. Sometimes reducing the dose of a medication or switching medications may help. In some cases, adding a medication may do the trick. There aren’t any drugs that have been specifically approved for the treatment of delayed ejaculation. Medications used to treat delayed ejaculation are used primarily to treat other conditions. Medications sometimes used to treat delayed ejaculation include: Amantadine (Parkinson’s) Buspirone (antianxiety) Cyproheptadine (allergy) Psychological counseling (psychotherapy) Psychotherapy can help by addressing underlying mental health problems leading to delayed ejaculation, such as depression or anxiety. It’s also used to address psychological issues that directly affect your ability to release. It may involve seeing a psychologist or mental health counselor on your own, or along with your partner. Depending on the underlying cause, you may benefit most from seeing a s*x therapist — a mental health counselor who specializes in talk therapy for s*xual problems. The type of counseling that’s best for you will depend on your particular concerns. Prevention: Because it can happen for a number of physical and psychological reasons, no one strategy can prevent delayed ejaculation. But taking these steps may help: Spend more time with your partner to increase intimacy. Limit or avoid the use of alcohol. Don’t use illegal drugs, such as marijuana. Stop using tobacco. Exercise regularly. Take steps to reduce or better manage stress. Get enough sleep. Get help for anxiety or depression. Make sure you’re getting the treatment you need for any chronic health problems.