Experiences of patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and premature ejaculation: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Premature ejaculation is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and is one of the most common ejaculation disorders in the male population. This study aimed to describe the experiences of men with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and premature ejaculation. This is a descriptive qualitative study based on Merleau-Ponty’s hermeneutic phenomenology. Twenty-three patients diagnosed with ADHD who experience premature ejaculation participated. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis with ATLAS.ti computer software. Two main themes were drawn from the data analysis: (1) “Virility in question: ejaculation time as the measure of masculinity” and (2) “Restoring sexual identity and function”. Premature ejaculators with ADHD experience heightened emotional challenges stemming from traditional masculine norms and the social pressure to conform, which has a negative impact on their sexual well-being. Furthermore, they encounter difficulties in their relationships, resulting in sexual dissatisfaction for both partners. In a quest to reclaim their sexual identity and function, the participants sought assistance from healthcare professionals and explored potential triggers for this sexual dysfunction, including the influence of ADHD.

Keywords

• attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• mental health nursing
• premature ejaculation
• qualitative research
• sexual dysfunction
• sexual relationship
• sexual satisfaction