Premature Ejaculation (Rapid Ejaculation)

Rapid or Premature Ejaculation (PE) is considered one of the most common male sexual conditions.

Studies have shown PE to affect up to 31% of men at some point during their lifetime. PE is often underdiagnosed, largely due to embarrassment and relationship stress, and unfortunately, many healthcare providers tend to not ask about or treat PE due to limited awareness of PE as a genuine, common, and treatable sexual dysfunction.

At Arkansas Urology, we believe premature ejaculation deserves the same level of attention as other sexual dysfunctions. Left untreated, it can lead to frustration, reduced self-esteem, and strain on sexual relationships. The good news? PE is highly treatable—and we’re here to help.

Our experienced providers offer judgment-free care to help you delay ejaculation, regain control, and restore confidence in your sex life. Whether it’s a lifelong concern or something that’s developed over time, we’re here to find the right solution for you.

What is Premature ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation is one of the most common forms of male sexual dysfunction and has probably affected every man at some point in his life. Many cases of premature ejaculation do not have a clear cause. With sexual experience and age, men often learn to delay orgasm. Premature ejaculation may occur with a new partner, only in certain sexual situations or if it has been a long time since the last ejaculation.

Psychological factors such as temporary depression, anxiety, guilt, stress, unrealistic expectations about performance, a history of sexual repression or an overall lack of confidence can cause premature ejaculation. Interpersonal dynamics may contribute to sexual dysfunction. Premature ejaculation can be caused by a lack of communication between partners, hurt feelings or unresolved conflicts that interfere with the ability to achieve emotional intimacy. Premature ejaculation can also be related to underlying medical causes such as hormonal problems, injury or a side effect of certain medicines.

There are two types of PE Lifelong and Acquired. Lifelong PE occurs from the first sexual experience and continues throughout life. Acquired PE occurs following a period of “normal” ejaculation experiences.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PE are classified by when PE occurs (before or immediately following penetration), circumstances when PE occurs (with specific partner or situation), and associated conditions (absence or presence of ED).

Causes and Risk Factors

The cause of premature ejaculation often involves a combination of physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Common contributors include:

  • Performance anxiety or stress about sexual performance
  • Depression or other mental disorders
  • Erectile dysfunction or ejaculatory dysfunction
  • Hormonal imbalances or thyroid conditions
  • Weak pelvic floor muscles
  • Sexual repression or a history of sexual abuse
  • Relationship problems or lack of sexual intimacy
  • Neurological sensitivity or altered ejaculatory reflex
  • Poor communication with a sexual partner
  • Sexual medicine side effects or prior trauma

Retrograde ejaculation, though less common, may also indicate broader ejaculatory dysfunction. Identifying the cause of premature ejaculation is essential to choosing the right treatment path. In many cases, treating the cause of premature ejaculation leads to long-term improvement and prevention of future ejaculation problems.

How Premature Ejaculation Is Diagnosed

Evaluation of PE regardless of type involves answering simple questionnaires, a physical examination, and in some cases labs to rule out any contributing health issues (e.g. ED). In every evaluation, it is critical to involve your partner to maximize symptom relief. Your provider will ask questions about ejaculation timing, control, distress, and how it affects your sex life.

Diagnosis may involve:

  • A full sexual history and discussion of symptoms
  • Review of your medical history, medications, and mental health
  • A physical examination to rule out anatomical or neurological causes
  • Assessment of ejaculation occurring during sexual encounters

In some cases, blood work or hormone testing may be recommended. The goal is to identify whether your PE is lifelong or acquired and whether it coexists with other sexual dysfunctions, such as erectile dysfunction.

Many men experience premature ejaculation at some point in their lives, but not all need treatment. Premature ejaculation is typically diagnosed when the issue is persistent, distressing, and interferes with sexual activity or emotional well-being.

Treatment Options for Premature Ejaculation

There are several effective ways to treat premature ejaculation, depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. At Arkansas Urology, we offer treatment for premature ejaculation using personalized, evidence-based strategies designed to restore confidence and control, and in many cases, prevent premature ejaculation from recurring.

Our plans may include one or more of the following approaches:

  • Behavioral techniques such as the stop-start and squeeze technique to build control and delay ejaculation
  • Kegel exercises to strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles and improve ejaculatory control
  • Topical anesthetics like Promescent® to decrease sensation and prolong sexual stimulation
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant used off-label to delay ejaculation
  • Sex therapy or couples counseling with a qualified sex therapist to address performance anxiety, psychological factors, or relationship issues
  • Treatment for any underlying conditions like erectile dysfunction, or to treat erectile dysfunction in conjunction with PE, which often coexists with PE

In some cases, combination therapy may offer the best results. Most men who seek help with premature ejaculation see improvements in sexual function, sexual desire, confidence, and satisfaction with their sex life and sexual intercourse.

What to Expect from Treatment

Most patients experience a noticeable improvement in early ejaculation control and sexual performance with consistent treatment. Reduced anxiety during sexual encounters, improved satisfaction, and better communication with a sexual partner are common outcomes. For many, these improvements lead to a more fulfilling sex life and stronger sexual relationships.

Once premature ejaculation is diagnosed, a tailored approach can begin. Whether lifelong or acquired, most cases respond well to a combination of therapies. The goal is to restore normal ejaculation timing, improve sexual function, and help patients regain control and confidence.

When ejaculatory dysfunctions like retrograde ejaculation or heightened ejaculatory reflex are present, our providers address them as part of a full evaluation. This may include pelvic floor therapy, medication, or adjustments to existing treatment plans.

Our care reflects both clinical experience and evidence-based research, including findings from premature ejaculation systematic reviews. We focus on long-term improvement and prevention of future issues through behavioral therapy, mental health support, and sexual medicine interventions.

Why Choose Arkansas Urology

Arkansas Urology offers advanced care for men experiencing premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and other forms of male sexual dysfunction. Our experienced team provides a discreet, supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected.

We treat premature ejaculation using the latest evidence-based options, including behavioral therapy, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, topical solutions like Promescent®, and sex therapy. Whether you’re sexually active and looking to delay ejaculation or struggling with performance anxiety or relationship problems, we offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs.

Our team is trained to address overlapping conditions like ejaculatory dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, and mental health concerns through a holistic and individualized approach to men’s health.

Take the Next Step

If you’re experiencing symptoms of premature ejaculation, Arkansas Urology is here to help. With leading experts in men’s health and access to the latest diagnostic tools and treatments, we provide the care and support you need to improve your sexual function and quality of life.

Don’t let embarrassment or frustration hold you back. Reach out today to schedule a private consultation with one of our experienced providers.

Premature Ejaculation Providers

Our board-certified urologists and men’s health specialists have extensive experience treating premature ejaculation and related sexual health conditions. At Arkansas Urology, you can expect compassionate care, evidence-based treatments, and real results. Contact our team to learn more about how we can help you treat premature ejaculation and take control of your sexual health.

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