What is ejaculation?
Ejaculation is the term used to describe the squirting out of semen from the penis during an orgasm.
Most men experience some form of erection or ejaculation problem at some point during their lifetime. For example, around 3 out of 10 men have had a problem with premature ejaculation. Such problems often cause anxiety and self-doubt which can make the problem worse.
Many ejaculation problems can be resolved with simple self-help techniques, but you should see your doctor if you feel it is severe or ongoing. It is important to remember that these problems happen to a lot of men.
Ejaculation difficulties
The causes of ejaculation problems differ, depending on the individual and the type of problem. There may be more than one reason for the problem which often complicates things.
Common causes for problems include:
- Physiology: Some men simply take longer than others to climax. This can be due to many different factors.
- Impotence: Inability to get or keep an erection (erectile dysfunction).
- Other medical conditions may cause ejaculation problems, these can be short-term or permanent and can include diabetes, prostate disease, and cancer of the testicle.
- Medication – delayed ejaculation is a side-effect of some medicines such as anti-depressants.
- Alcohol abuse often results to sexual problems including delayed ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
- Psychological reasons: Including premature ejaculation which tends to be the most common reason for ejaculation problems due to intense arousal or worry about performance. Other psychological problems may include performance anxiety and concerns around cultural or religious beliefs.
Diagnosis
Most men become aware of a problem themselves or in discussion with a partner or others. Visit your GP, who will discuss your concerns with you, and may examine you or refer you to a specialist.
Treatment
With any kind of sexual dysfunction people may feel anxious, embarrassed, insecure or ashamed. In some situations, this may make the situation worse. In any treatment of ejaculation difficulties these feelings must be taken into account or the treatment may not work.
If the problem is found to be caused by a condition such as prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), then treatment may be given which resolve the ejaculatory problem.
If medications such as anti-depressants are thought to be the cause, it may be possible to find alternative medication to avoid that particular-side effect.
Medication that delays ejaculation can also be prescribed through your doctor if it is appropriate.
It may be helpful to talk over the problem with a partner or counsellor to help resolve your concerns. If the underlying problem is stress then relaxation techniques, and solutions for the situations causing stress, will help.
