- Inability to discuss sexual dysfunction is causing 1 in 4 relationships to breakdown
- Aussie couples encouraged to ask each other ‘How was it for you?’
Up to 1 in 3 Australian men1 are affected by premature ejaculation (PE) but 83% of those who have experienced PE remain undiagnosed2. A recent study shows that sexual dysfunction is taking its toll on couples; 40% of men experiencing PE say it’s causing distance with their partners and 1 in 4 report that it’s leading to relationship breakdowns2.
Despite its impact on relationships, the Asia-Pacific Sexual Behaviours and Satisfaction Survey reveals that 72% of Australian men affected by PE are not talking to their doctors2 about the issue.
Commenting on men’s reluctance to see their GPs, Dr Michael Gillman, a nationally recognised doctor in male health issues said: “Lots of men are unaware of the treatment options available for sexual dysfunctions, whether it be counseling or medication, and the research shows that they are too embarrassed to speak with their GPs.”
“This lack of communication leaves many questions unanswered for Aussies. It comes as no surprise to see that 31% of men don’t know what causes PE2 – it’s commonly perceived to be a psychological issue, rather than the medical condition that it is.”
PE is putting a strain on both males and females in relationships, with research showing the following negative impacts:
| Impacts of PE2 | Men | Women |
| Negative impact on emotions and ego | 95% | 65% |
| More likely to avoid sex | 42% | 55% |
| Increased anxiety / frustration | 55% | 25% |
How Was It For You?
Almost three quarters of men (74%) and women (72%) agree that mutual sexual satisfaction plays an important role in a successful relationship2, yet they are not communicating to improve their sex lives. When it came to discussing PE with each other, 47% of men are too embarrassed and 49% of women do not want to hurt their partner’s feelings2.
Aiming to combat the nation’s embarrassment surrounding bedroom issues, Sexologist and Relationship Expert, Dr Nikki Goldstein and ControlPE.com.au are encouraging couples to ask the question “How Was It For You?”
Explaining the initiative, Dr Nikki said: “A sexual dysfunction in a relationship affects both partners. Communication with your partner is the first step to take when it comes to improving your sex life.”
“We’re encouraging couples to ask each other “How Was It For You?” to kick start these conversations, so that they’re able to get a better understanding of their partner’s needs and uncover any sexual dysfunctions.”
“If you are experiencing any problems, there is help out there in the form of qualified sexual counselors and medical practitioners.”
Making it easier for Aussies to start a conversation with a doctor, www.ControlPE.com.au is hosting a live Online Clinic from Monday, 30 June – Thursday, 3 July, 8 – 10pm as part of the “How Was it for You?” campaign. The Online Clinic enables men and women to talk anonymously to a male GP to seek advice on premature ejaculation and other sexual dysfunctions.
ENDS
Interviews are available with:
- Dr Nikki Goldstein
- Dr Michael Gillman
- Real couples who have been able to improve their relationships after trialing the “How Was It For You” initiative
About premature ejaculation
Premature ejaculation is the most common sexual dysfunction in men and is characterised by difficulty in controlling ejaculation. Premature ejaculation is recognised as a medical condition by global health organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), American Urological Association (AUA), American Psychological Association (APA) and the International Society of Sexual Medicine (ISSM). Effective treatment of PE can improve control over ejaculation and increase sexual satisfaction and overall quality of life for both men and their partners.
About ControlPE.com.au
www.controlPE.com.au is an online resource, which aims to educate Australians on the facts about PE, treatments available and advice on how to begin conversations with a medical professional. ControlPE.com.au was developed by A. Menarini to raise awareness of PE, which is underdiagnosed and undertreated.
About A. Menarini Australia Pty Ltd
A member of the Menarini Group, a leading European biopharmaceutical company, Menarini Australia is focused on delivering differentiated ethical and consumer healthcare brands to Australians. With an extensive brands portfolio, Menarini Australia markets a wide range of pharmaceutical, biotechnology and consumer health brands. Building on our strengths in dermatology, primary care, consumer health and specialty care, Menarini Australia is now introducing new products in men’s sexual health, cardiovascular and allergy/respiratory therapeutic areas. For further information please visit www.menarini.com.au
About the 2013 Asia-Pacific Sexual Behaviours and Satisfaction Survey
The 2013 Asia-Pacific Sexual Behaviours and Satisfaction Survey polled more than 3,500 men and women aged 18-45 years old from nine markets in Asia-Pacific, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand, to understand the impact premature ejaculation (PE) has on couples’ relationships and sexual satisfaction. The survey, conducted by Kantar Health and sponsored by Menarini Asia-Pacific, was conducted between 18 March 2013 and 2 April 2013, and incorporated the five-question Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT), a validated instrument for diagnosing premature ejaculation.
Media enquiries
Aideen McDonald 02 8020 1808 / aideen@onegreenbean.com.au
Grace Peaty 02 8020 1864 / grace@onegreenbean.com.au
[1] APAC PEPA study – McMahon et al, JSM 2012
[2] Kantar Health, sponsored by Menarini Asia-Pacific. 2013. Menarini Asia-Pacific Sexual Behaviours and Satisfaction Survey. Unpublished raw data.