More than a third of Thai men suffer from premature ejaculation (PE) which is putting many marriages under strain, according to a recent study.
The study covered men aged between 20 to 60 years old and the number of people found living with PE was higher than those experiencing erectile dysfunction, Bangkok Hospital urinary expert Sombun Lueangwatthanakit said.
About 36% of the men surveyed were found to have experienced premature ejaculation. Some 90% reported suffering from the condition soon after their first sexual encounter.
Many said they were likely to ejaculate within a minute of starting sex, Dr Sombun said.
PE does not affect only men physically, it has repercussions on relationships. Many men are dissatisfied with their sex lives and become worried, which leads to souring relationships, he said.
The study also revealed that only 38% of women whose husbands or boyfriends have PE were satisfied with their sex lives.
The demand for PE treatment is on the increase, probably driven by women "demanding sexual gratification", Dr Sombun said.
However, the study found only 34% of men would actively seek PE treatment while most said they would be too shy to consult doctors.
Only doctors can prescribe the drugs needed to treat PE. Dr Sombun said sufferers should discuss their problem with an expert because treatment will improve their relationships.
Some 60% men with PE problems said they would see a doctor if encouraged by their partners.
