Premature Ejaculation” Prevalent but Poorly understood- Part 2

The Pathology

The majority of men have experienced premature ejaculation at least once in their lives. Frequently, adolescent teenagers and young men experience "premature" ejaculation during their initial sexual encounters. The vast majority learn how to control the problem and a few start experimental home based therapies.

One episode of premature ejaculation is never a problem, however, if it occurs on a very regularly basis than one wishes (usually before intercourse or orgasm), then one has a disorder known as premature ejaculation. Premature ejaculation is the most common male sexual disorder. In the United States, premature ejaculation affects nearly 20% of males between the ages of 18-60. The major cause of premature ejaculation is believed to be psychological, but occasionally some organic causes are also responsible.

In a number of cases, premature ejaculation is secondary –mainly due to anxiety, mental stress, preoccupation with satisfying a female and fears about maintaining an erection during sex. Over the years numerous treatments have been postulated to help treat this condition. Some of these are outright based on quack medicine whereas others may help to some extent.

Premature Ejaculation” Prevalent but Poorly understood- The facts

Premature ejaculation is a common disorder in men of all ages. Because the condition is often not reported, surveys of premature ejaculation reveal a low prevalence. Almost all males report of having had an episode(s) of premature ejaculation at some point in their lives. Generally, these premature ejaculation occur more often in the teens and early 20s and subside.

Unfortunately, for some men the problem is long lasting. The sensitive nature of the disorder means all data are underestimates as most men are unlikely to brag about this ailment.

Most data falsely indicate that the disorder is common only in Caucasians. However, because of cultural values, social taboos and lack of medical access, Blacks, Hispanics and Asians are underrepresented in most studies.

Anecdotal reports indicate that premature ejaculation is present in all cultures and communities. As men start to come out of their closets, it is becoming realized that premature ejaculation is much more common than previous estimates.