Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common sexual health concerns among men, yet it is rarely talked about openly. Studies show that as many as one in three men experience it at some point in their lives.
For some, it happens occasionally and it is nothing to worry about. But for others, it happens almost every time they have sex, causing frustration, stress and even relationship problems.
The good news is that premature ejaculation is treatable and many men have successfully managed it with the right help.
WHAT IS PREMATURE EJACULATION?
Premature ejaculation occurs when a man ejaculates sooner than he or his partner would like during sex. It is generally considered a concern when:
– Ejaculation happens within one to three minutes of penetration almost all the time.
– There is little or no control over delaying ejaculation.
– It causes stress, frustration or leads to avoiding intimacy.
Some men may experience PE occasionally, while others may have it consistently from their very first sexual experience (lifelong PE) or develop it later after years of normal sexual function (acquired PE).
WHAT CAUSES PREMATURE EJACULATION?
For a long time, PE was thought to be purely psychological, but research now shows that a mix of psychological and biological factors can cause it.
Psychological factors include:
– Anxiety about sexual performance
– Early sexual experiences or sexual trauma
– Relationship problems
– Stress, depression or poor body image
Biological factors include:
– Hormonal imbalances
– Abnormal levels of brain chemicals that control ejaculation
– Prostate or urethral infections
– Genetic factors
MANAGING PREMATURE EJACULATION
The good news is that PE is highly treatable. Many men improve with simple lifestyle changes, counselling, or medical treatment.
1. Lifestyle and Fitness
Improving overall health helps. Studies show that weight loss and regular exercise can improve both premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, especially in men with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
2. Counselling or Sex Therapy
Psychosexual therapy can help couples talk openly about sex, reduce anxiety and learn techniques to improve control.
3. Behavioural Techniques
Start-Stop Method: Stimulate the penis until close to ejaculation, then stop for 30 seconds. Repeat three to four times before finally ejaculating.
Squeeze Method: Gently squeeze the tip of the penis until the urge to ejaculate passes.
4. Kegel Exercises
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles (the same muscles you use to stop urinating midstream) can improve control. Squeeze, hold for a few seconds and release – do this several times daily.
5. Medications and Topical Treatments
– Local numbing creams or sprays can reduce sensitivity.
– Certain antidepressant medicines (used off-label) can help delay ejaculation when taken daily or before sex.
– PDE5 inhibitors (like Sildenafil or Tadalafil) may help men with both PE and erectile dysfunction.
6. Experimental Treatments
Research is ongoing into advanced options like nerve stimulation and surgical techniques, but these are not yet standard treatments.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
If premature ejaculation is causing you distress, affecting your confidence or creating tension in your relationship, it is important to seek help.
At Ekuphileni Clinic, we provide confidential consultations, counselling and evidence-based treatment options to help you regain confidence and enjoy healthy intimacy.
For more information about the clinic, visit www.ekuphileniclinic.com or call 2408 9500 / 7602 3380.
Premature ejaculation is nothing to be ashamed of — it is common, treatable and many men improve with proper care. The first step is talking to a healthcare professional
