Evaluation of Time Perception in Individuals with Lifelong Premature Ejaculation

Objective: Premature Ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual disorder that considerably affects sexual satisfaction, subjective well-being, and quality of life. A clear picture of the pathophysiology of PE has still not been determined. Current research has revealed the involvement of the central nervous system. Alterations in frontal cerebral structures and a discrepancy between the reported and objectively measured intravaginal ejaculatory latency times both point to a possible alteration of time perception. The present study aimed to assess the time perception between individuals with lifelong PE and healthy individuals. Material and Methods: 24 individuals with lifelong PE and 24 healthy volunteers were recruited. Participants were administered both clinical measures and a time perception test battery including time interval estimation tests and time interval production tests for 4,7,32 and 58-second time intervals. Results: Lower predictions for 4-second time intervals were found in individuals with lifelong PE than in healthy controls. No differences were found for 7,32 and 58-second time intervals. The Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool scores correlated negatively with the 4-second and 32-second time interval predictions. Conclusion: The present results indicate a time perception deficit for short intervals in individuals with lifelong PE for the first time. This might be due to a working memory/executive function deficit or disruption of frontal functions on account of impulsivity. A specific deficit in time perception deficit might also occur. Further studies assessing other frontal functions concomitantly are required to draw firm conclusions.