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Ejaculatory disorders and sexual dysfunction occur in men worldwide, however, many common ejaculatory dysfunctions are most common in older men. Conditions like erectile dysfunction, low libido, and premature ejaculation impact millions of men each year.
Thankfully, most of these sexual health and ejaculation problems can be treated by targeting the underlying cause. Here’s what you need to know about the most common ejaculatory dysfunctions. These conditions can impact orgasm and sensation, making sex less enjoyable and desirable.
What is Ejaculation Disorder?
Ejaculatory dysfunction is the inability for a man to efficiently ejaculate at the moment of sexual climax. It’s the most common form of male sexual dysfunction and often the underlying cause of male infertility.
Ejaculatory disorders aren’t uncommon. In fact, approximately 30-40% of men experience premature ejaculation (PE) during their life. Research has also found that one in five men aged 18-59 report having incidences of PE.
Ejaculatory dysfunction can be classified into four different types: premature, delayed, retrograde, and anejaculation. These conditions impact ejaculation in different ways and cause sexual dissatisfaction and stressful relationships for men.
If you believe you have any of these conditions, it’s best to contact a men’s medical clinic for a professional diagnosis.
1. Premature Ejaculation (PE)
Premature ejaculation (PE) is when a man ejaculates before or very soon after penetration. Most men experience ejaculation before orgasm. The condition can cause embarrassment and frustration in the bedroom.
Some men have trouble controlling their orgasm immediately and may need help increasing their sexual stamina. Others are able to have intercourse for 5-10 minutes before orgasming too soon.
Premature ejaculation can be caused by various factors, including:
- Hormone levels
- Penile sensitivity
- Low sexual arousal
- Performance anxiety
There are many treatments for PE. Like most sexual health conditions, treating PE is dependent on the cause. Physical therapy, psychotherapy, and medications can all help to treat PE. The goal is to decrease penile sensitivity while also increasing the man’s ability to control his behavioral responses.
2. Delayed Ejaculation (DE)
Delayed ejaculation (DE) is when a man ejaculates long after sexual stimulation.
In most cases, men have an erection and are well-stimulated, but are simply unable to ejaculate.
DE happens from time to time, but can become problematic if it occurs more often than not.
There are many causes of delayed ejaculation, ranging from medications, excessive alcohol use, diuretics, high blood pressure, and sexual performance anxiety. DE can also be caused by hormonal imbalances and low self-esteem.
Treatment for delayed ejaculation is highly dependent on the underlying cause. There are a few medications that have been approved for “off-label” use to help men suffering from DE.
Psychotherapy can be used to resolve underlying psychological and mental health issues that may be causing sexual issues.
3. Retrograde Ejaculation (RE)
Retrograde ejaculation (RE) also known as dry ejaculation, is when some or all of the ejaculate goes backwards (retrograde). During climax, instead of coming out penis, the ejaculate travels back into the bladder. It eventually exits during urination.
If left untreated, this ejaculation problem can lead to infertility. RE is typically caused by a faulty bladder neck muscle. During climax, the muscle should prevent ejaculate from blacking back into the bladder.
This damage can be caused by medical conditions, such as diabetes or a spinal cord injury, as well as certain medications. The muscle can also dysfunction due to prostate or bladder surgery.
Retrograde ejaculation typically doesn’t need to be treated, unless it is causing infertility. There are several medications available that help the bladder neck muscle remain closed, which prevents ejaculate from traveling into the bladder.
4. Anejaculation
Men who experience anejaculation usually take an abnormally long time to ejaculate, while many others never ejaculate at all. Anejaculation varies, as some men are unable to orgasm or ejaculate, while others are able to have an orgasm but don’t ejaculate. Anejaculation can also cause men to ejaculate without orgasm.
This ejaculatory disorder can be caused by various factors, including:
- Hormonal abnormalities
- Aging
- Blocked semen ducts
- Psychological issues
- Medications (SSRIs)
- Diabetes
- Neurologic diseases
Anejaculation can also be caused by certain surgical procedures, including prostate and testicular cancer surgery.
Anejaculation is typically treated using psychological counseling as well as sexual therapy. Because the condition causes infertility, some men require sperm retrieval and placement options in order to reproduce.
Anejaculation caused by a spinal cord injury can sometimes be treated using penile vibratory stimulation, which encourages arousal and ejaculation.
5. Perceived Ejaculate Volume Reduction (PEVR)
Perceived ejaculate volume reduction (PEVR) causes a man to produce less ejaculate than normal. PERV can be caused by aging, diabetes, certain medications, and problems with the testes that cause low or no testosterone production.
PEVR usually occurs in tandem with other sexual health problems, including trouble maintaining or getting an erection as well as ejaculation problems.
Treatment is highly dependent on the underlying cause. For some men, sperm and ejaculation volume can be increased by making simple lifestyle changes including:
- Getting enough sleep at night
- Quitting smoking
- Routine moderate exercise
- Taking antioxidant supplements
If these methods don’t cause a notable increase in ejaculate volume, there are medications available that can help.
6. Male Orgasmic Disorder
Male orgasmic disorder, also known as anorgasmia, is when a man is unable to reach orgasm. The condition also occurs when a man is unable to achieve climax without a lengthy period of sexual contact.
Around 10% of men report experiencing difficulties with orgasm. Some men may assume they have male orgasmic disorder; however, underlying issues may result from low sex drive instead of disorder. Primary male orgasmic disorder is when a man has never experienced orgasm. Secondary anorgasmia is when a man experienced orgasm, but has lost the ability.
Lack of male orgasm can be caused by medical problems, psychological problems, and certain medications, especially SSRIs.
There are many treatment approaches to helping men with anorgasmia, including a combination of psychologic and physiologic approaches. Sex therapy that involves yoga and mindfulness strategies can also be beneficial.
If anorgasmia is caused by hormonal imbalances, medications can be used to boost orgasm function, including oxytocin and dopamine agonists.
Contact a Medical Specialist Today for Ejaculation Problems and Sexual Dysfunction
If you’re having issues with erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low testosterone or other sexual dysfunction, call the team at Priority Men’s Medical Center now to schedule an appointment to have a consultation with an experienced and specially trained medical team.
We will tailor the plan to your unique needs, history, and circumstances so you can get the best results possible. Give us a call today to set an appointment with our expert medical staff.
