Delayed Ejaculation – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors usually start diagnosing delayed ejaculation with a physical exam and a review of the person’s health and sexual history.
They ask about symptoms, sexual arousal, past medical conditions, and any medicines taken.
Tests that might be done include:
- Physical Exam: The doctor checks the penis and testicles for any signs of problems.
- Blood Tests: The doctor looks for issues like diabetes, hormone levels, or heart disease.
- Urine Tests: The doctor uses urinalysis to find possible infections or blood sugar problems.
If doctors cannot find the cause, a specialist may do more tests.
Treatment
Medicine Choices
If a medicine causes delayed ejaculation, the doctor may lower the dose, stop the medicine, or switch to another one. Sometimes, doctors add a new medicine to help with the problem.
No medicine is approved just for delayed ejaculation. Doctors sometimes use drugs meant for other issues.
Some of these are:
| Medicine Name | Usual Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dopaminergic agent | Parkinson’s disease |
| Anxiolytic (non-benzodiazepine) | Anxiety |
| Antihistamine (with appetite-stimulating effect) | Allergies |
Doctors may also use selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other types of antidepressants, but these do not help everyone.
Always talk to a medical provider before changing or taking any medicine.
Support Through Counseling
Mental health support can help if delayed ejaculation relates to stress, depression, or anxiety.
A mental health counselor or sex therapist can address worries or emotions that affect sexual function. Counseling can be done alone or with a partner. Talk-therapy methods help people manage the situation.
Managing Challenges and Finding Support
Delayed ejaculation can cause frustration and strain in relationships. Open and honest communication helps reduce misunderstandings and lets both partners feel supported.
If worries or tension affect daily life, couples may benefit from speaking with a professional counselor.
Tips for coping:
- Speak clearly with your partner about feelings and concerns.
- Avoid blaming yourself or your partner, as this can increase stress.
- Discuss worries with a healthcare provider if they continue.
Relationship difficulties or emotional problems may develop in some cases. Working as a team and seeking help early can make things easier for both partners.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take Beforehand
Bringing a partner to your appointment can help. The partner may give extra details that assist with diagnosis or treatment.
Prepare a list before your visit, including:
| Item | Details to include |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Description, start date |
| Personal information | Illnesses, stress, life changes |
| Medications/supplements | Name, dose, frequency |
| Discussion points | Questions, worries, other concerns |
- Symptoms: Write down all symptoms, even those that seem unrelated to delayed ejaculation. Note when each started.
- Important Personal Details: Include any recent illness, major stress, or changes in your life.
- All Medicines and Supplements: Write out the names, amounts, and how often you take medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and supplements.
- Points You Wish to Discuss: List any concerns or topics you want to bring up during the appointment.
Key Topics to Discuss with Your Health Professional
Being prepared with questions helps you get clear answers and make the most of your visit.
Consider asking:
- What is the likely reason for my delayed ejaculation?
- Will I need any tests? If so, which ones?
- Should I expect this problem to go away on its own?
- What treatments are available? Which do you think fits my case best?
- I have other medical problems. How can these be managed along with delayed ejaculation?
A written list will help you remember all your questions.
What Your Healthcare Professional Might Ask or Do
Your doctor or urologist may ask how often the issue happens. They may also want to know if it is a recent problem or something that has lasted a while.
They may ask specific questions, such as:
- Can you ejaculate during intercourse, or only in other situations like masturbation?
- How much time passes before you ejaculate during sexual activity?
- Have you noticed any changes in your interest in sex?
- Are there any difficulties in your relationship?
- Do you have other sexual difficulties, such as trouble getting an erection?
- Do you drink alcohol or use drugs? If so, how much?
If you answer honestly and give details, your healthcare professional can better understand your situation. This helps them give you the right advice.
