Typically, when a man hears about a problem with penis function, he associates it with an erectile issue or premature ejaculation. However, for some men a penis function issue may be in another area, such as delayed ejaculation. Comprehensive penis care involves treating any issue which may arise, so when delayed ejaculation is a concern, it’s important to know the possible causes. One of these is a relatively rare condition which doctors term hyperprolactinemia.

What is hyperprolactinemia?

Hyperprolactinemia refers to a situation in which a person has too much of a particular hormone, called prolactin. Also known as luteotropic hormone or luteotropin, prolactin is more commonly associated with women than men, although it is present in both sexes. It is most noted for the role it plays in milk production (hence the more common association with women). It can also serve to reduce the production of estrogen and testosterone if levels are out of balance.

Interestingly, hyperprolactinemia can have two seemingly contradictory effects in men. Because it can depress production of testosterone, this can lead to a lessening (though not necessarily a loss) of libido, and in some instances, a decrease in erectile function. However, some doctors believe that this does not have the effect of making men uninterested in sex. Instead, the dampening in these areas means that a man desires sex, initiates and engages in the activity, but the dampening makes it difficult to achieve ejaculation. In some cases, it means a man experiences a small softening of the penis during sex - not enough to end the activity, but enough to demand increased stimulation to reach orgasm. In these cases, if the increased stimulation cannot be reached, then the erection will fade before ejaculation can be achieved.

Causes

What brings about these increased prolactin levels that signal hyperprolactinemia? There can be several causes, including:

1) Pituitary gland issues, because the pituitary is where prolactin is produced. So if there is trouble there, it may spur increased production of the hormone.

2) Hypothyroidism, a situation in which the thyroid gland is acting below the necessary level. This may be due to low iodine levels, an autoimmune disorder, certain medications or other reasons.

3) Epileptic seizures, which may cause the pituitary to overproduce prolactin.

4) Head trauma, especially if it results in changes in signaling to the pituitary or thyroid.

Treatment

Treatment generally involves finding the cause and treating that. For example, if a tumor is present on the pituitary gland, the tumor may be treated or removed. If a medication is found to be the culprit, it may be discontinued and a different medical treatment may be tried.

If delayed ejaculation or other penis function issues continue to be a problem after treatment, it may be an indication there is another underlying cause for these issues. But for most men, the elimination of the elevated prolactin should eventually result in a restoration of normal ejaculatory experiences.

Penis function issues, whether from hyperprolactinemia or other causes, can be distressing. So can any issues which affect his penis health, so the wise man regularly makes a practice of applying a top notch penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Taking the time to locate a crème with both L-arginine and L carnitine is well worth the effort. L-arginine is an amino acid involved in the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide, in turn, helps keep penile blood vessels open so increased blood flow can be easily accommodated. L carnitine is an important neuroprotective ingredient which can help restore loss of sensitivity due to rough handling of the manhood.