Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of premature ejaculation

Until recently, premature ejaculation (PE) was believed to have a psychologic etiology requiring psychosexual therapy. Recognition of a neurobiologic component to the etiology of PE has since highlighted the need for diagnostic and management guidelines for this common sexual problem. One major medical organization-the American Urological Association (AUA)--has established such guidelines. In addition, the Second International Consultation on Sexual Dysfunctions (ICSD) in 2003 developed a set of recommendations for PE, as well as for other sexual dysfunctions.

To review the current guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PE.

The Sexual Medicine Society of North America hosted a State of the Art Conference on Premature Ejaculation on June 24-26, 2005 in collaboration with the University of South Florida. The purpose was to have an open exchange of contemporary research and clinical information on PE. There were 16 invited presenters and discussants; the group focused on several educational objectives.

Data from the AUA Guideline on the Pharmacologic Management of Premature Ejaculation and the Second ICSD.

Both documents emphasize the importance of a sexual history in diagnosing PE, and each of these two documents recognizes that diagnosis involves a shortened intravaginal latency time as well as patient reports of poor control over ejaculation and patient distress over the condition.

Condensed guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PE are presented. Once diagnosis is suspected, optimal treatment regimens should be established utilizing randomized placebo-controlled trials.