What is premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation is uncontrolled ejaculation either before or shortly after sexual penetration. It happens with minimal sexual stimulation and before the person wishes. It may result in unsatisfactory sex for both partners. This can increase the anxiety that may add to the problem. It is one of the most common forms of male sexual dysfunction. It has probably affected every man at some point in his life.
What are the symptoms of premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation is characterized by ejaculation that occurs too early — before a man or his partner wants — during a majority of sexual encounters and/or masturbation. PE is uncontrolled and occurs with a very low level of sexual stimulation.
What causes premature ejaculation?
The exact causes of premature ejaculation are not understood. It is probably caused by a combination of physiological and psychological factors, which could include:
- Anxiety, depression, stress, and/or guilt
- Hormone or other chemical imbalances
- Abnormal thyroid function
- Inflammation or infection
- Erectile dysfunction
- Medications
- Genetic factors
- Early sexual encounters that involved the need to rush through intercourse
How is PE treated by acupuncture?
Acupuncturists use what is called pattern diagnosis to explain the various health complaints of our patients. These patterns are usually named after internal organs that we know from biology class, but they don’t necessarily directly correspond to the literal organs in our bodies. By asking a lot of questions during your visit, I will decide what pattern best fits your symptoms. This pattern will then guide the treatments through the selection of acupuncture points and herbal medicines.
In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, I often recommend dietary modification, Qigong exercises and self-massage. Of course, you’re welcome to do these massage techniques with your sexual partners, too, as an intimacy building experience.
