COMPARABLE PSYCHOLOGICAL BURDEN IN MEN WITH LIFELONG/AQUIRED AND SUBJECTIVE/VARIABLE PREMATURE EJACULATION

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a broad term that encompasses several classifications. When reporting prevalence or analyzing associated factors, PE is mostly not further categorized. Aim was to assess the prevalence and associated factors (including sexual self-concept) of lifelong/acquired (l/a) and subjective/variable (s/v) PE.

For this analysis sociodemographic, lifestyle, health, psychological and sexual behaviour were included from the Bavarian Men’s Health-Study. Additionally, four dimensions of sexual self-concept were evaluated: body image, masculinity/toughness, sexual self-esteem, and perceived pressure regarding sexual performance. Prevalence rates of erectile dysfunction (ED), low libido (LL) and PE, further categorized into l/a PE and s/v PE, were evaluated. PE was assessed using two items from the Sexual Complaints Screener for Men (SCS-M). Statistical comparisons between men with l/a PE and no PE and between men with s/v PE and no PE were conducted.

A total of 4838 men with a mean age of 50.6 years (SD 0.8) were included. 91.6% were in a partnership. 95.0% identified as heterosexual, 4.2% as homosexual, and 0.8% as bisexual. 94.2% had partnered sexual activity in the last 3 months. The prevalence of l/a PE was 6.0% and 10.1% for s/v PE. 17.2% had ED and 4.8% LL.

Both l/a and s/v PE were significantly associated with moderate/severe lower urinary tract symptoms, poor self-related health, positive screenings for depression and anxiety, less partnered sexual activity, less solo-masturbation, sexual dissatisfaction, ED and LL (all p < 0.02). Men with l/a or s/v PE showed an association with a more negative body image, more traditional understanding of masculinity/toughness, lower sexual self-esteem, and higher perceived pressure regarding sexual performance compared to men without PE (all p < 0.001).

Men with l/a or s/v PE showed similar associated factors. In both groups, PE was associated with ED, LL, poor subjective health, sexual dissatisfaction and a more negative sexual self-concept. These findings suggest a comparable psychological burden in l/a PE and s/v PE and emphasises that PE should be diagnosed at an early stage, information should be provided as well as psychological or medical intervention offered if necessary.

None.