Premature or early ejaculation? Terminological analysis

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Sexual Medicine
• Medical Terminology

Background:

• Premature ejaculation is a prevalent sexual disorder.
• Current medical literature uses both "premature ejaculation" and "early ejaculation" to describe this condition.
• Recent guidelines from the French Society of Urology (2023) and the International Society for Sexual Medicine favor "premature", while EAU guidelines (2024) adopt the ICD's "early".

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the etymological differences between "early" and "premature".
• To determine the most appropriate term for describing the sexual disorder characterized by uncontrolled ejaculation.
• To provide clarity on the terminology used in sexual medicine.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of etymological definitions of "early" and "premature".
• Review of recent urological and sexual medicine guidelines (2023-2024).
• Examination of the International Classification of Diseases terminology.

Main Results:

• "Early" denotes rapid development, which can be desirable.
• "Premature" signifies an occurrence before the appropriate time and without control.
• The term "premature" accurately reflects the involuntary and unwanted nature of the ejaculation in this disorder.

Conclusions:

• The term "premature ejaculation" is more fitting due to its implication of lack of control.
• Using "premature" enhances understanding by highlighting the unwanted aspect of the condition.
• Standardizing terminology is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient communication in sexual health.