What is premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common male sexual problems, affecting 20-30% of sexually active men across all ages and backgrounds. It can take a toll on sex drive, sexual performance, self-confidence, and relationships. PE is also linked to other men’s health concerns, such as low testosterone (low T), erectile dysfunction, and male fertility issues.
Although PE is the most common form of male sexual dysfunction and is very treatable, relatively few men seek treatment for the problem. At Tower Urology in Los Angeles, we understand the sensitivity and personal nature of this condition, and we offer advanced, effective treatments tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
Who is affected by premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation (PE) may be more common than you think. It can affect men of any age but is most commonly reported among younger individuals. That said, older men with health concerns can also experience premature ejaculation (PE).
Whether you’ve been struggling with a long-standing sexual problem or you’re experiencing issues in a new relationship, you don’t have to face PE alone. At Tower Urology, we’re here to help.
What causes premature ejaculation?
There are several possible causes of premature ejaculation, including both psychological and physical factors.
Emotional and psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, relationship problems, or performance anxiety, frequently play a role and can trigger or worsen the situation. Fatigue, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of sexual experience may also be contributing factors.
Physically, PE may stem from reproductive system-related medical conditions, such as heightened penile sensitivity, hormone imbalances (like low testosterone), or medication side effects.
It may also be linked to other urological conditions, such as prostatitis, varicocele, low testosterone, or an enlarged prostate.
At Tower Urology, our expert providers take the time to understand your medical history and health so we can identify the underlying cause and provide the appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of premature ejaculation
The main symptom of premature ejaculation is ejaculation that occurs sooner than desired, often within one to two minutes of the start of sexual activity. When this happens repeatedly, it can cause distress, a feeling of a lack of control, and lead to an avoidance of intimacy. These issues can significantly affect sexual satisfaction, not only for the man but also for his partner, impacting their sex life and potentially causing strain in the relationship.
How is premature ejaculation diagnosed?
Diagnosing PE begins with a sensitive, confidential, and comprehensive evaluation by a specialist. At Tower Urology, your healthcare provider may take any or all of the following steps:
- Review your medical and sexual history, including symptom patterns and frequency.
- Conduct a physical examination to assess nerve sensitivity and inflammation.
- Arrange for hormone testing, if indicated, to evaluate testosterone levels.
- Assess whether psychological and emotional factors may be contributing to the problem.
It’s also important to differentiate PE from other sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction (ED) or low libido. An accurate diagnosis leads to a more targeted, successful treatment plan.
What are the treatment options for premature ejaculation?
At Tower Urology, we offer a variety of treatment options. Each is personalized to the individual. Common therapies include:
- Behavioral strategies such as the stop-start or squeeze technique.
- Oral medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (a type of antidepressant) can be used to help delay ejaculation, or in some cases, drugs such as Cialis or Viagra, which may benefit men with both PE and ED.
- Topical anesthetic creams or sprays to reduce penile sensitivity.
- Pelvic floor therapy to strengthen the muscles involved in ejaculation and address urinary incontinence.
- Lifestyle counseling addresses stress and sleep quality, encouraging healthy lifestyle changes.
- Cutting-edge treatments, including botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, which block the nerve signals that trigger early ejaculation.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can help rejuvenate sexual tissue by utilizing the body’s natural healing factors.
- Shockwave therapy to improve blood flow and sexual function.
If your PE overlaps with male fertility concerns or other sexual health issues, such as penile implants or vasectomy reversal, our team collaborates with other men’s health specialists to offer complete, coordinated premature ejaculation treatment.
Tower Urology offers treatments not commonly available elsewhere
Tower Urology offers access to advanced, state-of-the-art therapies, including PRP injections and Botox for PE, which are not typically available in general urology clinics.
Botox works by relaxing the muscles involved in the ejaculation reflex and has shown promising results in clinical studies.
PRP injections, which use components from your blood, can help revitalize aged tissue and may reduce symptoms of both erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.
These therapies benefit men who haven’t seen improvement with traditional methods.
At Tower Urology, we believe in safe, research-backed treatment, and our focus is on results, safety, and supporting your long-term sexual health.
What is the recovery process like?
Most PE treatments require little to no recovery time. Topical therapies and oral medications can begin working within days to weeks. Behavioral therapy requires more practice, but can be very effective.
Recovery from Botox or PRP treatments is minimal, with most men returning to regular activity within 24 to 48 hours.
Our team will walk you through every step, ensuring you’re comfortable and confident in your treatment plan.
Can premature ejaculation be misdiagnosed?
Yes, premature ejaculation is sometimes confused with other sexual dysfunctions, such as delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or even reduced libido caused by low testosterone. That’s why an accurate diagnosis from a trained men’s health expert is critical. At Tower Urology, we take a thorough, thoughtful, and sensitive approach to ensure your treatment is targeted and effective.
Why turn to Tower Urology for male health doctors in Los Angeles?
Premature ejaculation can be common, but it’s also highly treatable. Seeking care is a meaningful step toward improving your sexual well-being, your confidence, and your relationships. At Tower Urology, our board-certified specialists in men’s health provide compassionate, confidential care tailored to your unique situation.
We invite you to establish a care plan with Tower Urology’s board-certified urologists.
Tower Urology is a proud affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, ranked #1 in California and #2 nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. This partnership reflects our dedication to delivering the highest standard of urologic care alongside the best urologists in Los Angeles. Our years of experience and access to Cedars-Sinai’s world-class facilities ensure that our exceptional and innovative urological care positions Tower Urology as a leader in Southern California.
Tower Urology is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Burbank, Glendale, and Downtown Los Angeles.
At Tower Urology, we treat a wide range of men’s health conditions, including erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, chronic pelvic and testicular pain, prostatitis, vasectomy and vasectomy reversal, penile implants, shockwave therapy, male infertility, enlarged prostate, urinary incontinence, Peyronie’s disease, and support for men undergoing or recovering from prostate cancer treatment. Our specialists are committed to helping you regain control, confidence, and satisfaction.
Premature ejaculation frequently asked questions
Learning how to prevent premature ejaculation often involves a combination of approaches, including behavioral techniques, pelvic floor exercises, and sometimes medical treatment. In many cases, reducing stress, improving communication with a partner, and avoiding overstimulation are also helpful strategies.
The treatment of premature ejaculation is highly personalized based on each man’s medical history, symptoms, and goals. Options range from SSRIs, topical sprays, and pelvic floor therapy to PRP, Botox injections, and shockwave therapy. Your provider will help determine what’s best for you.
If you’re looking for a trusted men’s health urologist in Los Angeles or Southern California, Tower Urology offers expert care, discreet support, and the latest diagnostic and treatment tools for PE and related sexual health concerns.
Yes, ejaculation typically includes sperm, even if it happens prematurely. However, fertility may be impacted if there are additional issues, such as low sperm count or blocked sperm ducts.
Sources
Premature ejaculation – current concepts in the management: A narrative review
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7851481
Premature Ejaculation
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546701
Erectile Dysfunction
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562253
Is bulbospongiosus muscle botox injection safe and effective in treating lifelong premature ejaculation? Randomized controlled study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38581447/
