From SSRI therapy to dorsal nerve block — ranked by evidence level, with efficacy data and side effect profiles published upfront. PE is the most undertreated men's health condition because men don't ask. At MenPower, the consultation is in English and entirely confidential.
PE is classified as lifelong (primary) or acquired (secondary). IELT baseline measurement is the first step — this tells us objectively how severe your PE is. On-demand dapoxetine SSRI is first-line for most patients (3–8× IELT improvement). Dorsal nerve block provides the highest IELT multiple (4–8×) for neurogenic/severe cases. Combination therapy adds both effects. MenPower publishes side effect rates for all options.
Premature ejaculation is defined by the ICS and ISSM as persistent ejaculation within 1 minute of penetration (lifelong PE) or a significant reduction in IELT causing distress (acquired PE). At MenPower, we do not diagnose PE from patient self-report alone — we measure it.
We also administer the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) — a 5-question validated questionnaire — to determine PE severity and whether it is lifelong or acquired. This distinction changes the treatment recommendation significantly.
| Type | Definition | Typical Cause | Best Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifelong (Primary) | PE present since first sexual experience | Neurobiological; serotonin transporter gene variants | Daily or on-demand SSRI |
| Acquired (Secondary) | Developed after period of normal ejaculatory control | ED, relationship stress, prostatitis, thyroid | Treat underlying cause first |
| Natural Variable | Situational; not every encounter | Normal variation | Counselling + behavioural therapy |
Short-acting SSRI taken 1–3 hours before intercourse. IELT improvement: 3–8× baseline. Approved in Korea. Side effects: nausea (18%), dizziness (7%), headache (6%). Contraindicated with MAOIs and some antidepressants.
MenPower cost: $95–$140 consultation + RX
Applied 20–30 minutes before intercourse; wipe off before contact to prevent partner numbing. IELT improvement: 2–5× baseline. No systemic side effects. Some patients report reduced sensation.
MenPower cost: $30–$60
Hyaluronic acid filler injected around dorsal nerve branches to reduce penile sensitivity. IELT improvement: 4–8× baseline in responders. Permanent or long-lasting effect (12–18 months). Risk of numbness (6%); repeat injection available. Best for severe lifelong PE unresponsive to SSRI.
MenPower cost: $380–$520
Combined for severe lifelong PE. Additive effect: IELT improvement up to 10–14× baseline in published series. Reserved for cases where single-agent treatment is insufficient.
MenPower cost: $580–$780
| Treatment | Side Effect | Frequency | Duration | Management |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dapoxetine | Nausea | 18% | 2–4 hours | Take with food; usually resolves within first 3 uses |
| Dapoxetine | Dizziness / syncope | 7% | 2–4 hours | Sit/lie down; avoid alcohol on dosing day |
| Dapoxetine | Decreased libido | 3% | While taking drug | Dose reduction; switch to on-demand only |
| Topical EMLA | Reduced sensitivity | 22% | 2–4 hours | Reduce application time; switch to PSD502 spray |
| Topical EMLA | Partner numbing | 8% | 1–2 hours | Wipe completely before intercourse |
| Dorsal nerve block | Transient penile numbness | 100% | 3–7 days post-injection | Expected; self-resolving |
| Dorsal nerve block | Persistent hyposensitivity | 6% | Potentially permanent | Pre-op counselling essential; cannot be reversed |
| Dorsal nerve block | Injection site bruising | 35% | 5–10 days | Cold compress; resolves spontaneously |
Video consultation in English. Dr. Kwon has treated patients from 34 countries for PE — there is no question he hasn't been asked before. The consultation is entirely confidential.
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