The European Online Sexual Survey (EOSS): Pan-European Perspectives on the Impact of Premature Ejaculation and Treatment-Seeking Behavior

Although premature ejaculation (PE) is estimated to affect approximately 30% of men, it is an underreported and undertreated condition. To better characterize the perspectives of men with PE in Europe, an online Internet survey was conducted in five countries. A total of 2529 men, aged 18-69 yr, self-completed the European Online Sexual Survey (EOSS) questionnaire online. Criteria used to classify men with PE included self-reported ejaculation before penetration or intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) of <2 min and poor or very poor control over ejaculation and time to climax reported as a problem for the respondent, his partner, or both. Compared with the non-PE group, the PE group reported significantly less sexual activity, a higher level of distress due to PE, and a lower level of sexual satisfaction. In addition, the PE group reported a lower level for their partner's sexual satisfaction compared with reports from the non-PE group. The majority of the PE group thought an increase in their IELT would have a positive impact on their sexual relationship. Motivational factors that would inspire men to seek treatment for PE were reported as high frequency of PE, partner's suggestion, knowledge of a treatment option, and problem finding/keeping a partner. Current use of pharmacologic treatment for PE among respondents was very low, despite the availability of off-label prescriptions for PE.