Thyroid-stimulating hormone assessments in a Dutch cohort of 620 men with lifelong premature ejaculation without erectile dysfunction

Recommendations for the diagnosis and evaluation of premature ejaculation

OBJECTIVES

The Association Interdisciplinaire Post-Universitaire de Sexologie (AIUS) has brought together a panel of experts to draw up French recommendations for the management of premature ejaculation. This article presents the recommendations for the diagnosis and evaluation of premature ejaculation.

METHODS

Systematic review of the literature between 01/1995 and 02/2022. Using the method of recommendations for clinical practice (RPC).

RESULTS

We recommend using the SIAMS definition for everyday clinical practice. PE is defined as: (i) a persistent and recurrent subjective perception of loss of control (management) of the ejaculatory mechanism in the presence of appropriate erotic stimuli; (ii) subjective, PE-related distress induced in the patient and sexual dissatisfaction or PE-related anorgamy in the partner; (iii) a short intravaginal ejaculatory latency time, whether subjectively perceived by the patient and the partner or objectively measured as less than 180seconds (generally). We suggest that the same definition be applied to practices other than vaginal penetration, such as masturbation, oral or anal intercourse, as well as to non-heterosexual contexts. We suggest using information reported by the patient, possibly supplemented by assessment tests/questionnaires (IPE, PEP, PEDT). We recommend investigating the presence of other sexual dysfunctions, in particular erectile dysfunction (ED), as well as any sexual dysfunctions of partners. We recommend taking a medical and psychosexological history, and carrying out a targeted physical examination in patients complaining of PE.

CONCLUSION

These recommendations should help to improve the management of PE.

The impact of hyperthyroidism on sexual functions in men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to review the current knowledge on sexual dysfunction in men and women with hyperthyroidism through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Available clinical trials from the MEDLINE database were searched using a prerecorded protocol (Protocol Prospero ID: CRD42022340587), and obtained data were analyzed and reported according to the PRISMA guidelines. Pooled effect estimates were computed using a random-effects model. Twenty eligible studies were identified, of which 15 were included in this meta-analysis. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction was significantly higher in participants with hyperthyroidism than that in controls [odds ratio = 9.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.0-16.5)]. Treatment of hyperthyroidism alone improved erectile functions [effect size, ES = 0.36 (95% CI, -0.01-72)] and mean intra-vaginal ejaculation latency time [ES = 0.63 (95% CI, 0.27-98)] among men with erectile dysfunction and/or premature ejaculation. The prevalence of premature ejaculation also decreased with treatment of hyperthyroidism [odds ratio = 0.11 (95% CI, 0.04-28). Women with hyperthyroidism demonstrated higher odds in female sexual dysfunction than controls [odds ratio = 4.34 (95% CI, 2.63-7.18)]. Female sexual function index scores in women with hyperthyroidism were also significantly lower than those in the controls with moderate effect sizes. An evident and reversible disruption of sexual functions under hyperthyroidism conditions was observed in both sexes.

The rs6296 polymorphism in the 5-HT1b receptor in Dutch men with lifelong premature ejaculation: a genetic case-control association study

BACKGROUND

Lifelong premature ejaculation (LPE) is a rare sexual condition believed to be caused by genetic neurobiological disorders.

AIM

In this study we sought to evaluate the genetic association between the rs6296 polymorphism of the 5-HT1b receptor and intravaginal ejaculation latency times (IELTs) in men with LPE compared with men in a control group.

METHODS

This study was a prospective observational genetic case-control association study. The LPE definition of the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) 2013 was used. Patients were recruited in 2005-2009 while attending the department of Neurosexology, HagaZiekenhuis, the Netherlands. We obtained IELTs with the stopwatch method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for genotyping rs6296. A randomly selected group of European Caucasian men from the 1000GENOMES project was used as a control group.

OUTCOMES

Study outcomes included results of comparisons of analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests between genotypes and IELTs in study participants, genotypes of cases and controls determined with the chi-square test, and expressions of allelotype- and genotype-specific risks for LPE determined with odds ratios.

RESULTS

In total, 67 men with LPE were included in this study. The geometric mean (SD) IELT was 32.0 (27.4) seconds and was non-normally distributed. Genotype frequencies consisted of 29 (43.3%) GG, 31 (46.3%) GC, and 7(10.4%) CC individuals in the LPE group. Log-transformed IELTs were not statistically significant (per ANOVA tests) in men with GG, GC, or CC genotypes (P = .54). Genotype frequencies consisted of 16 (6.6%) GG; 93 (38.8%) GC, and 131 (54.6%) CC individuals in the control group (n = 240). Significant differences were found when comparing allele (P = 1.02e-17) and genotype (P = 3.22e-16) frequencies in cases and controls using a chi-square test. A statistically significant increased risk for LPE was found for carriers of the G allele (OR 5.62; 95% CI 4.13-9.42). Statistically significant risks were also found for the CG genotype (OR 6.24; 95% CI 2.63-14.77) and the GG genotype (OR 33.92; 95% CI 12.79-89.93).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

By investigating polymorphisms in target genes the neuro-pathophysiology of LPE could be further elaborated, potentially leading to more effective treatment.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

This is to our knowledge the first study investigating rs6296 with regard to LPE. By using a strict definition for LPE (ISSM 2013) and using the stopwatch method for measuring IELTs, bias in selection of true LPE patients will be relatively low. This study is limited by a relatively small study population and the lack of IELT data in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a genetic association in rs6296 in men with LPE compared with healthy controls. This result warrants attempted replication in future studies.

Premature Ejaculation and Endocrine Disorders: A Literature Review

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual dysfunction, with 30% of men experiencing PE worldwide. According to the generally accepted classification, there are two types of PE: lifetime PE and acquired PE. Various biological and psychological causes are known to be involved in the etiology of PE. However, due to the incomplete definition and etiopathogenesis of PE, there is no effective treatment. Although clinical and animal studies indicate that hormones play a role in controlling the ejaculation process, the precise endocrine mechanisms are unclear. In addition, little is known about the role of endocrine disorders in PE etiology. However, there is evidence that diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity, metabolic syndrome (MetS), thyroid gland disorders, pituitary gland disorders, and vitamin D deficiency affect the prevalence of PE. Moreover, it has been reported that the prevalence of PE decreases with treatment of these endocrine disorders. In this review, the relationship between PE and DM, MetS, obesity, vitamin D deficiency, and thyroid and pituitary gland disorders is summarized.

Systematic review and meta-analysis for the value of thyroid disorder screening in men with ejaculatory dysfunction

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate evidence from available clinical studies to clarify the scientific points that have been achieved in relation to thyroid disorders and ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD).

DATA SOURCES

Clinical trial articles published in English on Medline.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Clinical studies that investigated the association of thyroid disorders with the ejaculatory function of subjects and the trials evaluating the effect of thyroid dysfunction treatment on the ejaculatory function of the subjects were eligible.

SYNTHESIS METHODS

We searched Medline with "ejaculation" and different combinations of "thyroid," "serum TSH," "serum T3," "serum T4" keywords in PubMed.

RESULTS

Standardised mean serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in premature ejaculation (PE) sufferers differed from non-PE control subjects (P = .05). Hyperthyroidism was associated with increased odds among PE subjects (OR = 2.0, P = .03). Delayed ejaculation was seen with increased odds in hypothyroid patients compared with hyperthyroidism patients (OR = 57, P = .0001). Serum TSH and mean intra-vaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) of the subjects showed a correlation both before and after treatment for thyroid disorder. Treatment of thyroid disorders improved the mean IELT measures of the subjects. The overall estimate of the effect of hyperthyroidism treatment on mean IELT was .64 (P = .0001) in the random-effects model.

LIMITATIONS

The low quality and quantity of evidence from available studies limited the interpretation of our study findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The causal relationship between EjD and thyroid disorders remains to be clarified. Sufferers of delayed ejaculation acquired PE subjects, and PE sufferers who have accompanying erectile dysfunction and/or anxiety may benefit from thyroid disorder investigation.

Management of premature ejaculation: a clinical guideline from the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS)

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most prevalent male sexual dysfunction, and the most recently defined. PE is often mistakenly considered a purely psychosexological symptom by patients: the lacking awareness in regards to the pathophysiology and treatments often lead to resignation from the patients' side, making PE the most underdiagnosed sexual complaint. However, an ever-growing body of evidence supporting several organic factors has been developed in the last decades and several definitions have been suggested to encompass all defining features of PE. In the present document by the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS), we propose 33 recommendations concerning the definition, pathophysiology, treatment and management of PE aimed to improve patient care. These evidence-based clinical guidelines provide the necessary up-to-date guidance in the context of PE secondary to organic and psychosexological conditions, such as prostate inflammation, endocrine disorders, and other sexual dysfunctions, and suggest how to associate pharmacotherapies and cognitive-behavioral therapy in a couple-centered approach. New therapeutic options, as well as combination and off-label treatments, are also described.

Frequency of etiological factors among patients with acquired premature ejaculation: prospective, observational, single-center study

Although premature ejaculation (PE) is a common male sexual dysfunction, its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. Several medical problems such as erectile dysfunction, depression, anxiety, hormonal disorders and chronic prostatitis may play a role in the etiology of acquired PE. This study aims to evaluate the frequency of these etiologic factors among patients with acquired PE. Between May and July 2016, 53 men with acquired PE were included in the study. Self-estimated intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) of these patients was recorded along with their medical history and physical examination findings. Moreover, 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), premature ejaculation profile (PEP), anxiety and depression scales (STAI-1, STAI-2, and BECK), and chronic prostatitis symptom index (NIH-CPSI) were administered. Fasting plasma glucose, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, total and free testosterone, total prostate specific antigen, thyroid and thyroid stimulating hormone levels were measured. Urine analysis and 2 cup tests were also studied. Mean age of the patients was 42.41 ± 11.14 (22-60). Mean duration of the PE complaint was 34.18 ± 36.76 (3-144) months. Mean IELT time of the patients was 38.28 ± 30.79 (3-180) s. Of the patients; 69.81%, 62.26%, 56.60%, 45.28%, 30.19%, 24.53%, 16.98%, 15.09%, and 7.55% had depression, chronic prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, anxiety, diabetes mellitus, abnormal FSH or LH, hypoprolactinemia, hyperthyroidism, and high testosterone levels, respectively. The results of our study revealed that anxiety disorders, depression, erectile dysfunction, and chronic prostatitis are common among patients with acquired PE and may play role in the etiology of this problem. There is a need for further researches related to the exact pathophysiology of acquired PE with larger number of patients.

Effect of Thyroid Hormone Derangements on Sexual Function in Men and Women

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction affects many people, with 33‒60% of women reporting sexual dysfunction and 8‒52% of men with erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation. In an effort to determine the constellation of factors responsible for sexual dysfunction, the effect of thyroid hormone derangements has been of recent interest.

AIM

To investigate the associations between thyroid hormones and sexual dysfunction in women and men.

METHODS

Literature was reviewed to examine the effects of hypo- and hyperthyroidism on sexual function.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

We present a summary of the effects of thyroid dysfunction on domains of sexual functioning.

RESULTS

Most studies demonstrate that men with hypo- and hyperthyroidism have increased rates of sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction in men with hypothyroidism. However, studies vary on the strength of correlation between hormonal derangement and level of sexual dysfunction. In both men with hyper- and hypothyroidism, treating the thyroid disorder at least partially reverses sexual dysfunction. In contrast, the current literature provides no consensus on the effect of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or Hashimoto's thyroiditis on female sexual function. In studies that observed increased rates of sexual dysfunction in women with thyroid disorders, correction of the thyroid derangement resulted in resolution of some sexual dysfunction. Studies are also conflicted on whether there is a relationship between the degree of sexual dysfunction and the degree of hormone derangement in women. However, prior work has demonstrated a relationship between thyroid autoantibodies and sexual dysfunction in women.

CONCLUSION

Thyroid dysfunction is an important factor in the pathogenesis of sexual dysfunction in men and possibly women. Evidence suggests a reversibility of sexual dysfunction with correction of thyroid dysfunction, although the exact pathophysiology of thyroid-mediated sexual dysfunction remains unknown. However, current evidence supports thyroid derangements rather than autoantibodies as the causative factor in men, whereas autoantibodies appear to play a more prominent role in women. Bates JN, Kohn TP, Pastuszak AW. Effect of Thyroid Hormone Derangements on Sexual Function in Men and Women. Sex Med Rev 2020;8:217-230.

Contemporary management of ejaculatory dysfunction

Although erectile dysfunction is the most common disorder of male sexual health, ejaculatory dysfunction is the most common form of sexual dysfunction experienced by men. Ejaculatory dysfunction covers a broad range of disorders that we have divided into four main categories: premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation (DE)/anorgasmia, unsatisfactory sensation of ejaculation (including painful ejaculation and ejaculatory anhedonia), and absent ejaculate (including retrograde ejaculation and aspermia). We also cover several special scenarios including hematospermia, spinal cord injury and fertility with anejaculation. In this paper, we will review the anatomy and pathophysiology of normal ejaculation to establish the baseline knowledge of how this pathway can go awry. We will then briefly review the critical diagnostic criteria, pertinent steps in evaluation, risk factors, and causes (if known) for each of the ejaculatory disorders. Finally, the bulk of the paper will discuss current management strategies of each disorder.

Effects of the dopamine D3 receptor agonist 7-hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino) tetralin in hyperthyroidism-induced premature ejaculation rat model

Various factors are involved in the aetiology of premature ejaculation (PE). Hyperthyroidism is one of the causes of acquired PE, but the exact mechanism by which it causes the disorder is not yet understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the dopaminergic system in hyperthyroidism-induced PE by the intracerebroventricular microinjection of the preferentially active dopamine receptor agonist 7-hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino) tetralin (7-OH-DPAT) in a rat model of this disorder. Wistar rats were randomly divided into hyperthyroid and control groups, and ejaculation was induced by the ICV administration of 7-OH-DPAT. To evaluate the emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation, measurements of seminal vesicle pressure (SVP) and electromyographic recordings of the bulbospongiosus muscle were taken. The interval between the 7-OH-DPAT administration and the first ejaculation was significantly less in the hyperthyroid group (p < .01) than in the control group, and the maximum amplitude of the SVP values revealed a statistically significant difference between the groups (p < .01). The intervals between contractions of the seminal vesicle and bulbospongiosus muscles were also significantly less in the hyperthyroid group (p = .0187) than in the control group. No other results differed significantly between the groups. This study determined that hyperthyroidism altered only the emission phase of ejaculation.

Premature ejaculation: challenging new and the old concepts

Premature ejaculation remains a difficult condition to manage for patients, their partners, and the clinician. Whilst prevalence rates are estimated to be 20-40%, determining a diagnosis of premature ejaculation is difficult, as the definition remains both subjective and ill-defined in the clinical context. As our understanding of the ejaculatory pathway has improved, new opportunities to treat the condition have evolved with mixed results. In this review, we explore some of these controversies surrounding the aetiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition and discuss potential novel therapeutic options.

The pathophysiology of acquired premature ejaculation

The second Ad Hoc International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) Committee for the Definition of Premature Ejaculation defined acquired premature ejaculation (PE) as a male sexual dysfunction characterized by a the development of a clinically significant and bothersome reduction in ejaculation latency time in men with previous normal ejaculatory experiences, often to about 3 minutes or less, the inability to delay ejaculation on all or nearly all vaginal penetrations, and the presence of negative personal consequences, such as distress, bother, frustration and/or the avoidance of sexual intimacy. The literature contains a diverse range of biological and psychological etiological theories. Acquired PE is commonly due to sexual performance anxiety, psychological or relationship problems, erectile dysfunction (ED), and occasionally prostatitis and hyperthyroidism, consistent with the predominant organic etiology of acquired PE, men with this complaint are usually older, have a higher mean BMI and a greater incidence of comorbid disease including hypertension, sexual desire disorder, diabetes mellitus, chronic prostatitis, and ED compared to lifelong, variable and subjective PE.

Normal male sexual function: emphasis on orgasm and ejaculation

Orgasm and ejaculation are two separate physiological processes that are sometimes difficult to distinguish. Orgasm is an intense transient peak sensation of intense pleasure creating an altered state of consciousness associated with reported physical changes. Antegrade ejaculation is a complex physiological process that is composed of two phases (emission and expulsion), and is influenced by intricate neurological and hormonal pathways. Despite the many published research projects dealing with the physiology of orgasm and ejaculation, much about this topic is still unknown. Ejaculatory dysfunction is a common disorder, and currently has no definitive cure. Understanding the complex physiology of orgasm and ejaculation allows the development of therapeutic targets for ejaculatory dysfunction. In this article, we summarize the current literature on the physiology of orgasm and ejaculation, starting with a brief description of the anatomy of sex organs and the physiology of erection. Then, we describe the physiology of orgasm and ejaculation detailing the neuronal, neurochemical, and hormonal control of the ejaculation process.

Hormonal correlations of premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation is the most frequent male sexual dysfunction, significantly impairing quality of life of both the patient and the partner and affecting up to one-third of men of every age. In the last years, our knowledge about this topic has greatly increased, and studies on the causes and treatments related to ejaculatory disorders have shed a light on previously uncharted territory. Public interest on sexual dysfunctions has likewise increased in the general population: the time lapse between the first symptoms of sexual dysfunction and the seeking of medical advice has been significantly reduced, whereas demand for a treatment has markedly increased. A role of endocrine regulation has been established in all the aspects of male reproduction; however, the endocrine control of ejaculation is not fully understood. Sex steroid, pituitary, and thyroid hormones have all been advocated as potential candidates in the regulation of the ejaculatory process, but exact mechanisms are not clear yet and further studies are required in order to identify potential targets for treatment.

An Update of the International Society of Sexual Medicine's Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Premature Ejaculation (PE)

INTRODUCTION

In 2009, the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) convened a select panel of experts to develop an evidence-based set of guidelines for patients suffering from lifelong premature ejaculation (PE). That document reviewed definitions, etiology, impact on the patient and partner, assessment, and pharmacological, psychological, and combined treatments. It concluded by recognizing the continually evolving nature of clinical research and recommended a subsequent guideline review and revision every fourth year. Consistent with that recommendation, the ISSM organized a second multidisciplinary panel of experts in April 2013, which met for 2 days in Bangalore, India. This manuscript updates the previous guidelines and reports on the recommendations of the panel of experts.

AIM

The aim of this study was to develop clearly worded, practical, evidenced-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of PE for family practice clinicians as well as sexual medicine experts.

METHOD

A comprehensive literature review was performed.

RESULTS

This article contains the report of the second ISSM PE Guidelines Committee. It offers a new unified definition of PE and updates the previous treatment recommendations. Brief assessment procedures are delineated, and validated diagnostic and treatment questionnaires are reviewed. Finally, the best practices treatment recommendations are presented to guide clinicians, both familiar and unfamiliar with PE, in facilitating treatment of their patients.

CONCLUSION

Development of guidelines is an evolutionary process that continually reviews data and incorporates the best new research. We expect that ongoing research will lead to a more complete understanding of the pathophysiology as well as new efficacious and safe treatments for this sexual dysfunction. We again recommend that these guidelines be reevaluated and updated by the ISSM in 4 years. Althof SE, McMahon CG, Waldinger MD, Serefoglu EC, Shindel AW, Adaikan PG, Becher E, Dean J, Giuliano F, Hellstrom WJG, Giraldi A, Glina S, Incrocci L, Jannini E, McCabe M, Parish S, Rowland D, Segraves RT, Sharlip I, and Torres LO. An update of the International Society of Sexual Medicine's guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of premature ejaculation (PE). Sex Med 2014;2:60-90.

An update of the International Society of Sexual Medicine's guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of premature ejaculation (PE)

INTRODUCTION

In 2009, the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) convened a select panel of experts to develop an evidence-based set of guidelines for patients suffering from lifelong premature ejaculation (PE). That document reviewed definitions, etiology, impact on the patient and partner, assessment, and pharmacological, psychological, and combined treatments. It concluded by recognizing the continually evolving nature of clinical research and recommended a subsequent guideline review and revision every fourth year. Consistent with that recommendation, the ISSM organized a second multidisciplinary panel of experts in April 2013, which met for 2 days in Bangalore, India. This manuscript updates the previous guidelines and reports on the recommendations of the panel of experts.

AIM

The aim of this study was to develop clearly worded, practical, evidenced-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of PE for family practice clinicians as well as sexual medicine experts.

METHOD

A comprehensive literature review was performed.

RESULTS

This article contains the report of the second ISSM PE Guidelines Committee. It offers a new unified definition of PE and updates the previous treatment recommendations. Brief assessment procedures are delineated, and validated diagnostic and treatment questionnaires are reviewed. Finally, the best practices treatment recommendations are presented to guide clinicians, both familiar and unfamiliar with PE, in facilitating treatment of their patients.

CONCLUSION

Development of guidelines is an evolutionary process that continually reviews data and incorporates the best new research. We expect that ongoing research will lead to a more complete understanding of the pathophysiology as well as new efficacious and safe treatments for this sexual dysfunction. We again recommend that these guidelines be reevaluated and updated by the ISSM in 4 years.

The hormonal control of ejaculation

Hormones regulate all aspects of male reproduction, from sperm production to sexual drive. Although emerging evidence from animal models and small clinical studies in humans clearly point to a role for several hormones in controlling the ejaculatory process, the exact endocrine mechanisms are unclear. Evidence shows that oxytocin is actively involved in regulating orgasm and ejaculation via peripheral, central and spinal mechanisms. Associations between delayed and premature ejaculation with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, respectively, have also been extensively documented. Some models suggest that glucocorticoids are involved in the regulation of the ejaculatory reflex, but corresponding data from human studies are scant. Oestrogens regulate epididymal motility, whereas testosterone can affect the central and peripheral aspects of the ejaculatory process. Overall, the data of the endocrine system in regulating the ejaculatory reflex suggest that widely available endocrine therapies might be effective in treating sexual disorders in these men. Indeed, substantial evidence has documented that treatments of thyroid diseases are able to improve some ejaculatory difficulties.

Hormonal causes of male sexual dysfunctions and their management (hyperprolactinemia, thyroid disorders, GH disorders, and DHEA)

INTRODUCTION

Besides hypogonadism, other endocrine disorders have been associated with male sexual dysfunction (MSD).

AIM

To review the role of the pituitary hormone prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH), thyroid hormones, and adrenal androgens in MSD.

METHODS

A systematic search of published evidence was performed using Medline (1969 to September 2011). Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine-Levels of Evidence (March 2009) was applied when possible.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The most important evidence regarding the role played by PRL, GH, thyroid, and adrenal hormone was reviewed and discussed.

RESULTS

Only severe hyperprolactinemia (>35 ng/mL or 735 mU/L), often related to a pituitary tumor, has a negative impact on sexual function, impairing sexual desire, testosterone production, and, through the latter, erectile function due to a dual effect: mass effect and PRL-induced suppression on gonadotropin secretion. The latter is PRL-level dependent. Emerging evidence indicates that hyperthyroidism is associated with an increased risk of premature ejaculation and might also be associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), whereas hypothyroidism mainly affects sexual desire and impairs the ejaculatory reflex. However, the real incidence of thyroid dysfunction in subjects with sexual problems needs to be evaluated. Prevalence of ED and decreased libido increase in acromegalic patients; however, it is still a matter of debate whether GH excess (acromegaly) may create effects due to a direct overproduction of GH/insulin-like growth factor 1 or because of the pituitary mass effects on gonadotropic cells, resulting in hypogonadism. Finally, although dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate have been implicated in a broad range of biological derangements, controlled trials have shown that DHEA administration is not useful for improving male sexual function.

CONCLUSIONS

While the association between hyperprolactinemia and hypoactive sexual desire is well defined, more studies are needed to completely understand the role of other hormones in regulating male sexual functioning.

Hormonal evaluation in premature ejaculation

INTRODUCTION

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a frequently encountered sexual dysfunction in men. It significantly impairs quality of life of the affected male and his partner. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of hormonal factors in patients with PE.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

107 male patients aged between 26 and 64 years (mean 45.1 ± 10.36) who consulted our outpatient clinics with complaints of PE and 94 healthy males (48.1 ± 11.81 years) as a control group were included in the study.

RESULTS

When mean serum hormone concentrations of both groups were compared, levels of prolactin and free T4 were found to be significantly higher in the PE group relative to the control group (p < 0.05). At least one of the hormonal parameters was abnormal in 36 cases (33.6%) with PE, compared to only 22 (23.4%) of the controls. The number of hyperprolactinemic cases was found to be significantly increased in the PE group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We feel that during the evaluation of this problem, which affects great numbers of men and their partners throughout the world, consideration of potential effects of hormonal factors might be beneficial.

Premature and delayed ejaculation: two ends of a single continuum influenced by hormonal milieu

Although it is well established that all the aspects of male reproduction are hormonally regulated, the endocrine control of the ejaculatory reflex is still not completely clarified. Sex steroids, thyroid and pituitary hormones (oxytocin and prolactin) have been proposed to control the ejaculatory process at various levels; however, only a few reports are currently available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of testosterone, thyrotropin (TSH) and prolactin (PRL) in the pathogenesis of ejaculatory dysfunction in a large series of subjects consulting for sexual dysfunction. Among the 2652 patients studied, 674 (25.2%) and 194 (7.3%) reported premature and delayed ejaculation (PE and DE), respectively. Categorizing ejaculatory difficulties on an eight-point scale starting from severe PE and ending with anejaculation (0 = severe PE, 1 = moderate PE, 2 = mild PE, 3 = no difficulties, 4 = mild DE, 5 = moderate DE, 6 = severe DE and 7 = anejaculation), PRL as well as TSH levels progressively increased from patients with severe PE towards those with anejaculation. Conversely, the opposite was observed for testosterone levels. All of these associations were confirmed after adjustment for age (adjusted r = 0.050, 0.053 and -0.038 for PRL, TSH and testosterone, respectively; all p < 0.05). When all hormonal parameters were introduced in the same regression model, adjusting for age, ΣMHQ (an index of general psychopathology) and use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants, they were independently associated with ejaculatory problems (adjusted r = 0.056, 0.047 and -0.059 for PRL, TSH and testosterone, respectively; all p < 0.05). This study indicates endocrine system is involved in the control of ejaculatory function and that PRL, TSH and testosterone play an independent role.

The relationship between premature ejaculation and hyperthyroidism

PURPOSE

We determine the prevalence of premature ejaculation in patients with hyperthyroidism and observed intravaginal ejaculation latency time alterations before and after hyperthyroidism treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2004 and June 2007, 49 patients with hyperthyroidism and no history of hyperthyroidism treatment were enrolled in the study. After obtaining a detailed sexual anamnesis an erectile function questionnaire was completed and a patient self-reported outcome measure of difficult control over ejaculation was examined. We assessed stopwatch measurements of intravaginal ejaculation latency time performed by the patient or partner. Patient anxiety status was also evaluated. Changes in the mentioned measurements induced by hyperthyroidism treatment were examined 8 weeks after the achievement of euthyroidism.

RESULTS

In the 43 eligible patients mean +/- SD age was 48.0 +/- 8.8 years. Premature ejaculation was observed in 31 of the 43 patients (72.1%). Mean intravaginal ejaculation latency time in patients with hyperthyroidism was 72.8 +/- 83.3 seconds. Of the 43 patients 30 (69.8%) were considered to have definite premature ejaculation according to stopwatch measurements. In patients with hyperthyroidism who had definite premature ejaculation anxiety scores were determined to be higher. A positive correlation was noted between serum thyroid stimulating hormone and intravaginal ejaculation latency time in the patients. In 24 patients who completed the followup visits we noted statistically significant improvement in intravaginal ejaculation latency time after the achievement of euthyroidism.

CONCLUSIONS

Excess thyroid hormone and premature ejaculation are clinically interrelated conditions. Hyperthyroidism should be considered a novel and reversible etiological risk factor for premature ejaculation.

An experimental approach to the interrelationship between hyperthyroidism and ejaculation latency time in male rats

PURPOSE

We investigated the effects of experimentally induced hyperthyroidism on seminal vesicle pressure measurements and bulbospongiosus muscle contractile activity in a para-chloroamphetamine (Sigma-Aldrich) induced ejaculation model in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats were used in the study. Daily injection of 25 microg/100 gm body weight L-thyroxine (T4, Sigma-Aldrich) for 14 days was performed in 14 rats to induce hyperthyroidism. Seven L-thyroxine injected rats were in the hyperthyroid group. The remaining 7 rats (recovery group) underwent operation after a 28-day washout period to determine spontaneous recovery from hyperthyroidism. At each operation seminal vesicle catheterization was done to measure intraluminal pressure and bulbospongiosus muscle dissection was performed for electromyography. After intraperitoneal administration of 5 mg/kg para-chloroamphetamine physiological parameters related to the ejaculatory process were measured.

RESULTS

The interval between para-chloroamphetamine administration and first ejaculation was significantly decreased in the hyperthyroid rat group compared with that in the control group (mean +/- SD 202.8 +/- 22.3 vs 465.4 +/- 104.6 seconds, p = 0.001). Seminal vesicle phasic contraction frequency was significantly higher than control group values in hyperthyroid rats (for 30 minutes 32.3 +/- 13.9, p = 0.047). The mean AUC of bulbospongiosus muscle electromyography activity was also significantly increased in this group (11.1 +/- 4.1 V per second x 10(-4), p = 0.0001). All parameters in recovery and control group rats were not significantly differed from each other.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperthyroidism leads to enhanced seminal vesicle contraction frequency and bulbospongiosus muscle contractile activity in rats. Hyperthyroidism affects the emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation in reversible fashion.

Changing paradigms from a historical DSM-III and DSM-IV view toward an evidence-based definition of premature ejaculation. Part II--proposals for DSM-V and ICD-11

BACKGROUND

In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), a descriptive definition for premature ejaculation (PE) that was based on historical assumptions has been accepted.

AIM

To formulate a new functional definition of PE in the DSM.

METHODS

A "syndrome" approach instead of a "complaint" approach is applied and evidence-based data from epidemiological and clinical studies are used.

RESULTS

A new functional definition of PE should pertain to a cluster of "symptoms" of a distinct "syndrome." A syndrome rather than a descriptive definition should distinguish Lifelong and Acquired PE variants. Evidence-based data also suggest another PE type "Natural Variable PE," which is not a typical syndrome but rather a cluster of inconsistent symptoms of rapid ejaculation. Moreover, in "Natural Variable PE" the occurrence of rapid ejaculation is not based on neurobiological or psychological pathology, but belongs to the normal variability of sexual performance. Its prevalence is probably much higher than that of Lifelong and Acquired PE. We propose three separate operationalized definitions of these three PE types for the pending DSM-V and ICD-11, which include a quantification of the ejaculation time (intravaginal ejaculation latency time), inability of ejaculatory control, and a description of severity of PE in terms of psychological distress.

CONCLUSION

The use of the intravaginal ejaculation latency time into the DSM-V and ICD-11 would mean that statistical evidence becomes accepted as one of the mainstays for establishing an evidence-based definition of the three PE types.