Men, are you in control?

Men like to be in control… they were designed that way. In a healthy family structure, men are the head of the household. But the reality is: Many men have lost control—some at home, others in the bedroom. At home, many men have relinquished their servant-leader role. In the process, they have lost their authority and have created many dysfunctional families. In the bedroom, countless men are losing control sexually. It is a dysfunction that is placing a strain in many relationships. It is called Premature Ejaculation (PE).

Premature ejaculation is a common sexual dysfunction among males, where men literally lose control and ejaculate too early, usually before, upon or shortly after penetration. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV-TR) defines PE as “the persistent or recurrent ejaculation with minimal sexual stimulation before, on, or shortly after penetration and before the person wishes it.”  Estimates vary but as many as one out of three men are reported to have PE, which makes it more common than erectile dysfunction, a male sexual dysfunction.

Why is control so important?  A man’s loss of control in ejaculation during intercourse usually results in sexual dissatisfaction for both the man and his partner.  PE is known to be associated with personal and interpersonal negative psychosocial consequences and difficulty. It can adversely affect a couple’s relationship, particularly in their goal of achieving greater intimacy and mutual satisfaction. Yet, despite being a common problem among males, men seldom seek help for PE due to the social stigma, shame and embarrassment attached to this sexual disorder. The intimate nature of the problem often prevents men from taking that step toward finding a solution. More so, the loss of control due to PE persists because the problem is often ignored and seldom openly discussed by couples. It is usually assumed that PE is simply influenced by psychological factors such as anxiety, fatigue or stress—leaving the problem rarely addressed. PE is more than just a psychological issue.  There may be neuro-biological factors involved such as penile hypersensitivity, hyperexcitability, genetic predisposition and central 5-HT sensitivity.

In the past, treatment options for PE management revolved around behavioral techniques, psychological therapy, the use of topical anesthetic creams and medications, even acupuncture. Now there is a medical solution specifically designed and proven to effectively treat PE—allowing men to regain control of their sexual life again. Men no longer have to hide in shame knowing that PE is a common sexual problem.  With a better understanding of PE, men need not lose control of their sexual life. You are not alone or helpless—see your doctor. There is now a solution available.

Dr. Jaime SD. Songco is a urologist, vice president of the Philippine Urological Association and president of the Philippine Society of Urologic Oncologists. A health information advocacy supported by A. Menarini Philippines, PE-P Talk is a column series that aims to raise awareness on and enhance understanding of premature ejaculation (PE) and its proper diagnosis and treatment. For inquiries, please e-mail [email protected] or visit www.controlPE.ph.