Overview
Premature ejaculation (PE) occurs when ejaculation happens sooner during sexual intercourse than a man or his partner would like. It is a common sexual complaint that can be treated effectively.
Symptoms
- Ejaculation that always or nearly always occurs within one minute of penetration
- Inability to delay ejaculation during intercourse
- Distress, frustration, or avoidance of sexual intimacy
Causes
Causes can be psychological (stress, depression, performance anxiety) or biological (abnormal hormone levels, inflammation of the prostate or urethra).
Treatment
Behavioral Techniques
Techniques such as the pause-squeeze method or pelvic floor exercises can help delay ejaculation.
Medications
Topical anesthetics or certain oral medications (such as antidepressants) can be used to delay orgasm.