Delayed Ejaculation in Men

Delayed Ejaculation in Men

Delayed ejaculation is one of the rarest male sexual dysfunctions, but it can cause significant psychological distress in affected individuals. According to the DSM-5, delayed ejaculation is defined as a persistent or recurrent delay in ejaculation, or an inability to achieve ejaculation, during almost all or all partnered sexual activities, despite the desire for timely ejaculation. The condition must persist for at least 6 months for a clinical diagnosis to be made.

In many cases, individuals do not experience difficulties during masturbation or oral sex, while the problem becomes evident specifically during vaginal intercourse. In some adolescents, delayed ejaculation may also appear during masturbation. Additionally, some individuals may still experience nocturnal emissions (wet dreams).

Causes of Delayed Ejaculation

As with many sexual dysfunctions, delayed ejaculation is often associated with strict religious or moral upbringing. Viewing sexuality as shameful, sinful, or forbidden, as well as childhood sexual trauma and misinformation about sexuality, are among the contributing psychological factors. Lack of sexual knowledge and limited sexual experience may also play an important role.

Performance anxiety, excessive masturbation habits, and becoming conditioned to a specific stimulation style can also contribute to delayed ejaculation during partnered sex.

However, when ejaculation does not occur at all, an organic cause should be strongly considered. Certain antidepressant medications, prostate surgery, and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease may contribute to this condition. Frequent alcohol consumption is another possible risk factor.

References:

• Şahin, D., Şimşek, F., Seyisoğlu, H. Sexual Life Problems. CETAD Information Document.
• Eserdağ, S. (2004). Delayed Ejaculation in Men.
• American Psychiatric Association (2003). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV/DSM-5).