Leading urologists have identified financial difficulties as a significant factor contributing to premature ejaculation (PE) in men. Stress and anxiety due to economic challenges are said to impact sexual performance, leading to premature ejaculation, a common issue affecting 30 to 40 percent of men.
According to health experts, premature ejaculation occurs when a man ejaculates sooner than desired during intercourse, potentially affecting relationship dynamics and self-confidence. Experts from the Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta, including Dr. Olaitan Adeyemi, emphasize that financial stress can exacerbate mental health concerns like anxiety and depression, which, in turn, may lead to PE.
“Financial hardship often triggers unhealthy coping habits, such as excessive alcohol or smoking, which may worsen conditions linked to premature ejaculation,” said Dr. Adeyemi. Premature ejaculation, he noted, is complex and influenced by various factors, including neurological issues, hormonal imbalances, and social stressors. The impact of financial hardship, he added, extends beyond socioeconomic boundaries, although men with limited healthcare access and higher stress levels may be especially vulnerable.
According to the Mayo Clinic, premature ejaculation may stem from early sexual experiences, guilt, anxiety, or relationship challenges. Dr. Adeyemi elaborated that financial pressures often lead men to neglect their physical and mental well-being, which contributes to poor sexual performance.
Premature ejaculation, experts say, can indirectly affect fertility by reducing the chances of successful conception. Persistent PE can also lead to anxiety and, potentially, erectile dysfunction, although the two conditions are separate.
Dr Taiwo Alabi, a consultant urologist, suggested healthy lifestyle choices, such as avoiding smoking and maintaining a nutritious diet, to improve sexual performance. Alabi also recommends the “stop-start technique” as a strategy to delay ejaculation. He clarified that PE generally occurs within one minute of penetration, contrasting with the accepted Intravaginal Ejaculation Latency Time (IELT) of three to seven minutes.
“Premature ejaculation impacts men psychologically, often leading to depression, withdrawal from intimacy, and loss of self-confidence,” explained Dr. Alabi. Healthy living, which includes eating fruits, reducing weight, and staying physically active, can help avert these risk factors, he added.
Urologists advise men experiencing symptoms like recurrent premature ejaculation, painful ejaculation, or blood in semen to seek early treatment, as these issues can adversely impact the quality of life.
