What Should Men Do If They Have Premature Ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common condition that affects many men, but it is often not discussed openly due to embarrassment or stigma. It occurs when a man ejaculates sooner than he or his partner would like during sexual intercourse, typically within one to two minutes of penetration. While it can be frustrating, premature ejaculation is treatable, and there are several strategies men can use to manage the condition. Here’s what men should do if they are dealing with PE.

1. Acknowledge the Issue and Seek Help

The first step in managing premature ejaculation is to acknowledge the problem and not ignore it. Many men may feel ashamed or embarrassed, but recognizing that PE is a common and treatable condition is key to overcoming it. Talking to a healthcare professional, such as a urologist or a sex therapist, is an important step. A doctor can diagnose the cause of PE, whether it’s psychological, physiological, or a combination of both, and recommend appropriate treatments.

2. Explore Behavioral Techniques

Behavioral techniques have been proven effective in helping men gain better control over ejaculation. Two commonly recommended methods are:

The Start-Stop Technique: This involves engaging in sexual activity and then stopping just before ejaculation to allow the arousal level to subside. After a brief pause, the activity is resumed. Over time, this technique helps men recognize their body’s signals and gain better control.
The Squeeze Technique: This method involves applying gentle pressure to the tip of the penis just before ejaculation, which can help delay the climax. The pressure reduces the sensation of impending ejaculation, allowing the man to regain control.

Both techniques require practice and patience, but many men find them effective in reducing the symptoms of premature ejaculation.

3. Consider Pelvic Floor Exercises

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises can be very beneficial for men with premature ejaculation. These muscles control the flow of urine and are also responsible for managing ejaculation.

How to Perform Kegels: To identify the pelvic floor muscles, try stopping urination midstream. Once you identify the muscles, contract them for 5-10 seconds, then release. Repeat the exercise 10-15 times a day.
Benefits: Kegel exercises help improve the strength and control of the pelvic floor muscles, which can contribute to better sexual performance and delay ejaculation.

4. Use Desensitizing Products

Some men find that using desensitizing creams or condoms can help reduce sensitivity and delay ejaculation. These products contain mild anesthetics, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, that numb the penis slightly to prolong sexual activity.

Numbing Creams: Applying a thin layer of numbing cream to the penis can help reduce sensitivity, allowing for a longer duration of intercourse. However, it is important to use these products as directed to avoid excessive numbness or irritation.
Desensitizing Condoms: Condoms coated with numbing agents can also help reduce sensitivity, giving men more control during intercourse.

5. Manage Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are significant contributors to premature ejaculation. Performance anxiety, relationship issues, or external pressures can all cause men to rush or lose control during sex. Managing stress is crucial for improving sexual health.

Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help reduce anxiety. These activities promote relaxation and can lower stress levels, leading to better control during sex.
Communication: Open and honest communication with a partner can help reduce performance anxiety. Talking about concerns, expectations, and desires can create a supportive environment and reduce pressure.

6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle contributes significantly to sexual health and can help prevent or manage premature ejaculation. Focus on the following:

Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, boosts energy, and helps manage stress. Cardiovascular exercises like jogging, swimming, or cycling are particularly beneficial.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps support overall health and sexual function. Foods that improve circulation and hormone balance, like zinc-rich foods, can be particularly helpful.
Limit Alcohol and Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can negatively affect sexual performance. Reducing or eliminating these habits can lead to improvements in sexual health and stamina.

7. Consult a Doctor for Medication

In some cases, men may benefit from medications that help manage premature ejaculation. A doctor may prescribe:

Topical Anesthetics: These creams or sprays are applied to the penis to reduce sensitivity and delay ejaculation.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These antidepressants, which include medications like fluoxetine or sertraline, are sometimes prescribed off-label to help delay ejaculation by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors): These medications, such as sildenafil (Viagra), can sometimes be used in combination with other treatments to improve erectile function and delay ejaculation in men with both ED and PE.

8. Consider Therapy or Counseling

If psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, are contributing to premature ejaculation, therapy or counseling can be highly beneficial. A sex therapist can help men address underlying emotional or mental health concerns and provide strategies to manage stress and improve sexual confidence.

Conclusion

Premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition, and men experiencing it should not feel embarrassed or hopeless. A combination of behavioral techniques, lifestyle changes, stress management, and professional help can significantly improve the ability to control ejaculation and restore sexual satisfaction. It’s important to acknowledge the issue, communicate openly with a partner, and seek professional advice to find the most effective treatment. With the right approach, premature ejaculation can be managed, leading to a fulfilling and enjoyable sexual life.