Premature ejaculation: what helps, according to sexologists
Behavioural techniques, counselling and medicines can all help. Here is what the evidence says.
Premature ejaculation (PE) is when you regularly ejaculate within about a minute of penetration and feel unable to delay it, causing distress. It is the most common male sexual problem. Behavioural techniques, counselling, numbing creams and prescription medicines such as dapoxetine help most men, often in combination.
What is premature ejaculation?
Doctors diagnose PE when ejaculation happens very quickly most of the time, you cannot control it, and it bothers you or your partner. Some men have had it since their first sexual experiences (lifelong PE); others develop it later, often linked to anxiety, erection problems, prostate inflammation or thyroid problems (acquired PE).
What causes premature ejaculation?
The exact cause is often unclear, but these factors are known to play a part:
- Performance anxiety, stress or relationship difficulties
- Erectile dysfunction, which can make men rush to ejaculate
- Inflammation or infection of the prostate
- An overactive thyroid
- A naturally sensitive ejaculatory reflex
Which techniques can help you last longer?
The “stop-start” and “squeeze” techniques train you to recognise the point just before ejaculation and pause until the urge settles. Pelvic floor exercises can improve control. Practising with a partner, using condoms to reduce sensation, and reducing anxiety around sex also help. These methods take a few weeks of regular practice.
What medical treatments are available?
Prescription dapoxetine is taken 1–3 hours before sex and can delay ejaculation. Doctors sometimes prescribe low-dose daily antidepressants off-label. Anaesthetic creams or sprays applied to the penis before sex reduce sensitivity. If PE is linked to erection problems, treating the erection problem with medicines such as tadalafil often helps too.
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How long should sex normally last?
Studies show the average time from penetration to ejaculation is around five to six minutes, with wide variation. Feeling satisfied matters more than a number.
Can premature ejaculation be cured?
Many men improve a lot with treatment. Lifelong PE may need ongoing techniques or medicine, while acquired PE often resolves when the cause is treated.
Is premature ejaculation a sign of a serious illness?
Rarely. It is occasionally linked to prostate inflammation or thyroid problems, which your doctor can check for.
References
- International Society for Sexual Medicine. Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of premature ejaculation.
- European Association of Urology. Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health, 2025.
About Dr. Farhan Siddiqui
Sexologist & Couples Therapist in Mumbai with 16 years of experience.
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