Scott Weaver
Updated at: February 25, 2025 · 5 min read
What causes premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual health condition affecting men of all ages. It occurs when a man ejaculates too quickly during sexual activity, often before he or his partner would like. While there is no specific time frame that defines PE, it is generally considered to be ejaculation that happens in less than two minutes or before penetration. This can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and relationship difficulties. But what exactly causes premature ejaculation, and what can be done to treat it?
Key Takeaways
Premature ejaculation happens when a man finishes too quickly.
This can be due to stress, anxiety, or health conditions, and it might affect confidence and relationships.
Treatment Options
Premature ejaculation can be treated with:
Psychological therapy like counselling or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to manage anxiety or past trauma.
Topical treatments like EMLA cream and Stud 100 to reduce sensitivity.
Oral medication such as Priligy (dapoxetine) to delay ejaculation.
Healthy habits can help.
Managing stress, exercising, eating well, and talking openly with a partner can improve control and make sex more enjoyable.
Understanding Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation can be classified into two main types:
Lifelong Premature Ejaculation: This begins in adolescence or early adulthood and persists throughout life.
Acquired Premature Ejaculation: This develops later in life and is often linked to physical, psychological, or relationship factors.
Understanding the underlying cause is crucial in finding the right treatment.
What Causes Premature Ejaculation?
Psychological Causes
Many cases of premature ejaculation are linked to psychological factors, including:
Performance Anxiety: Nervousness about sexual performance can lead to rapid ejaculation. This is especially common with new or casual partners.
Stress and Mental Health Issues: Anxiety, stress, and depression can interfere with the body's natural sexual response, leading to early ejaculation.
Relationship Issues: Emotional conflicts, lack of intimacy, or communication problems with a partner can contribute to PE.
Sexual Conditioning: Some men develop rapid ejaculation habits in their teenage years (e.g., due to rushing masturbation in private settings) and struggle to break this pattern in adulthood.
Biological Causes
Certain physical factors can also contribute to premature ejaculation, such as:
Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal levels of hormones like serotonin and dopamine can affect ejaculation timing.
Overactive Nerve Responses: Some men have heightened nerve sensitivity in the genital area, making them more prone to PE.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Fear of losing an erection may cause some men to rush ejaculation.
Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and multiple sclerosis can impact sexual function.
Prostate or Thyroid Issues: Infections or imbalances related to the prostate or thyroid may influence ejaculation control.
How Do I Know If I Have Premature Ejaculation?
While there is no strict rule on how long sex should last, research suggests that the average duration of intercourse is around 5.5 minutes. If you regularly ejaculate in under two minutes, or before penetration, and this is causing distress, you may have premature ejaculation.
PE is only considered a medical issue if it affects your well-being or your relationship. If you are unsure, discussing it with a doctor can help determine whether treatment is necessary.
Treatment Options for Premature Ejaculation
There are several effective treatment options available, depending on the cause of the condition.
Psychological Therapy
If premature ejaculation is caused by anxiety, stress, or relationship problems, therapy may be beneficial. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and counselling can help manage anxiety, improve confidence, and address any underlying emotional factors.
Medications for Premature Ejaculation
Priligy (Dapoxetine): A prescription medication designed to help men last longer during sex by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Certain antidepressants, such as paroxetine or sertraline, can also be prescribed off-label to delay ejaculation.
Topical Treatments
Lidocaine-Based Sprays and Creams: Products such as EMLA cream and Stud 100 contain local anaesthetics that reduce penis sensitivity, helping to prolong intercourse.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises can improve ejaculation control. Regular practice can help men last longer during sexual activity.
Behavioural Techniques
Stop-Start Method: This involves stopping stimulation before ejaculation and resuming once control is regained.
Squeeze Technique: Applying pressure to the penis just before ejaculation can help delay it.
Slower Pace: Taking breaks and reducing intensity during sex can help control ejaculation timing.
Can Premature Ejaculation Be Prevented?
While not all cases of PE can be prevented, the following lifestyle changes may help improve sexual performance:
Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help manage stress-related PE.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves blood flow and overall sexual health.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports hormone regulation and nervous system function.
Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Both can negatively impact sexual function and contribute to premature ejaculation.
When to Seek Medical Help
If premature ejaculation is affecting your confidence, relationships, or overall well-being, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. A doctor can help identify the underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatments, whether psychological, medical, or lifestyle-related.
Final Thoughts
Premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition. Whether it stems from psychological factors like anxiety or physical conditions such as hormone imbalances, there are numerous treatment options available. From medications like Priligy to topical solutions like EMLA cream and behavioural techniques, men experiencing PE have multiple ways to regain control over their sexual performance.
If you are concerned about premature ejaculation, consider speaking to a doctor or exploring treatments available at UK Meds. With the right approach, you can overcome PE and improve your confidence and satisfaction in your sex life.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC reference no: 7151419
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