Couple Talk: “Happy Wife, Happy Life”
No, we’re not talking about one of the upcoming newest show of the TV5 network. The “Happy Wife, Happy Life” I’m referring to is a recent medical seminar about physical intimacy for couples that me and my wife recently attended as hosted by Menarini at the Fort in Taguig City.
We’re married for more than a year now and we recognise that such mature topics is an important matter for couples. So we decided to accept their invitation as online media practitioners and join this discourse about physical intimacy that focuses on one of the problems of men nowadays – premature ejaculation (PE).
Menarini Philippines together with the Philippine Urological Association, boldly launched its Commit to Control PE Advocacy campaign since 2013 which aims to make couples more comfortable about discussing their intimacy concerns with each other, without it being a cause of insecurity or dissatisfaction.
Caution: we would have to warn our readers that the discussion in this article moving forward suits mature individuals currently in a special relationship. If you think this topic is not for you, please proceed on reading other articles such as our Breakfast at Katz Diner. 🙂
His & Hers
To a big extent, I agree with that statement – “Happy Wife, Happy Life”. And I believe all husbands would agree on the premise that if your wife is happy, your couple-life would be happy as well. And of course, the husband should be joyful as well. As they say, it takes two to tango. 🙂
I believe that the problem on PE, or releasing of the male’s seminal fluid upon reaching ultimate sexual pleasure in a very short time from the moment of penetration during sex, can indeed cut short the sexual pleasure for women; specially if they haven’t reached their own orgasm.
This possible dissatisfaction can lead to other relationship issues which can rock the situation. More so, if the core foundation of the relationship is not stable.
On the other hand, I personally believe that if true and strong love and communication is present from both parties, this matter can be handled properly. But of course, that is debatable for most and deserves another article altogether.
For now, let’s focus objectively in addressing the problem for it’s own sake.
Learnings from the Seminar
Present at the event was Dr. Dennis Serrano, who talked about the “basics” of premature ejaculation to help the guests have a better understanding of this condition.
As a young husband, I learned a lot from the forum, here are some which strike me most:
- 1 out of 3 men has problems with PE making it the most common male sexual dysfunction beyond erectile dysfunction in Asia Pacific.
- PE is basically not being able to control ejaculation but has no problem with erection. It is neither associated with a disease but can happen across all ages.
- PE Diagnostic Tool are available but highly suggested to be undertaken with proper medical guidance.
- PE Treatment Options include both Non-Pharmacological & Pharmacological. Examples in both categories are enumerated below:
- Non-Pharmacological:
– Self-Help Treatment
– Behavioral Treatment (Education, Communication, Squeeze Technique, Masturbation Exercises, Individual Supportive Theraphy, Relazation Theraphy, Hypnosis) - Pharmacological
– Topical Treatment (Local Anaesthetics)
– On Demand Oral (dapoxetine)
– Daily-Dosed SSRI/tricyclic antidepressants
– PDE-5 Inhibitors
– Tramadol
– Neurotomy of dorsal penile nerve fibres
– Other Unapproved Topical Treatment
- Non-Pharmacological:
- There is now an FDA approved drug for PE to improve control over ejaculation called Dapoxetine as released by Menarini mid of last year. It is available by prescription in 30 mg and 60 mg oral tablets.
“ In the past, premature ejaculation was thought to be purely psychological.* Now doctors understand that premature ejaculation can have a biological explanation and is associated with serotonin signals in the brain that control ejaculation.* Serotonin is a brain chemical that acts as a messenger. Our understanding of premature ejaculation continues to increase. Scientists have discovered variations in a gene controlling serotonin signalling that could be linked to premature ejaculation.* Among the currently available treatments for premature ejaculation, one works by influencing the serotonin signalling pathway.*” (*quote references available upon request fro the article writer)
Discussions For Two
I was surprised with the statistics, actually. I didn’t realise it could be that many across all ages. Before, I though that these problems can only be encountered by the senior ones.
Dra. Margie Holmes shared some insights as well about “Love and Lust that Lasts”. Her thoughts were enlightening as well focusing on love and understanding for your partner even if the couple is undergoing certain stress such as physical changes which can come naturally with age.
I wouldn’t say that my relationship with my wife is perfect. Actually, we’re far from it. We have our own share of fights and disagreements but what is most important is we learn from our mistakes, rise from it, and understand each other better.
So if you have problems in the relationship as a couple, do not be afraid to ask of help or advise from your friends, family, or even spiritual leaders such as your pastors or priests. Just be discerning enough as not everyone you consult will be giving you good advise. 🙂
On the physical aspect, if you will have problems such as PE, do not be afraid to consult your doctor for advise. If you are doubtful, get a second opinion and/or referrals. It might be embarrassing at first, but if you believe it can help you and your relationship for the better, I see no reason why you should not consider it. Be cautious as well and learn as much as you can with the benefits and possible drawbacks of certain medications if ever you will decide to take them.
