You, me and PE (premature ejaculation)

PE or Premature Ejaculation can be likened to “Dupree” in the romantic comedy “You, Me and Dupree.” Much like that character in the movie, PE can be frustrating, irritating, unpredictable, and can place a huge strain in a relationship, even the most loving ones.

Unfortunately, PE continues to pervade many relationships. It is a common sexual problem that affects 30 percent of males between the ages of 20 and 60, and may be lifelong or acquired. Possibly due to the feelings of embarrassment, shame and frustration that often accompany it, PE persists to be the “elephant in the room” which nobody wants to talk about or address. Because of this, PE has gotten in the way of mutual sexual satisfaction of numerous couples and has become a growing nuisance during those moments of intimacy.

Due to the abrupt interruptions of PE, sex has become for many couples less about pleasure and affection and more about frustration and disappointment. PE is a sexual dysfunction common among men. It is considered premature when it occurs 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.” In a US observational study conducted according to the DSM-IV criteria, it was found that more than half of the men with PE ejaculated within 2 minutes, over a fifth of the men in one minute, while more than a third of the men did so in 2-5 minutes.

According to the Asia Pacific PEDT Survey, more than half of the men with PE said they had difficulty delaying their ejaculation and that they ejaculated before they wanted to. In the same survey, a large majority claimed they felt frustrated because they ejaculated before they wanted to and likewise expressed their concern that this would leave their partners sexually unfulfilled. In another study conducted in the United States and European countries, men with PE were reported to have feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, frustration, anger and disappointment over their condition.

The truth is: PE remains largely unaddressed, often ignored and poorly understood. But there is hope for couples. A medical solution for PE is now available. This medical solution is specifically designed and indicated to effectively treat PE and help men overcome their PE problem and possibly restore the loving relationship with their spouse.

For a better understanding of PE and its treatment, it is best to seek the help of medical professionals. If you are one of the countless men with PE, see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Nelson Patron is a urologist and past president of the Philippine Urological Association. 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.