How to Stop Premature Ejaculation: The Definitive Guide

Here’s how to stop early climax and last longer in bed.

Updated: Tuesday 28 November 2023

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Premature ejaculation (PE) is a sexual dysfunction which occurs when a man ejaculates sooner than expected during sexual intercourse. It occurs in men who cannot naturally control their ejaculation and cannot typically last longer than 2 minute during sex. This condition can sometimes be mistaken for erectile dysfunction (ED) where a man is unable to get and maintain an erection.

Many men still find it uncomfortable speaking to a medical professional about PE and other types of sexual dysfunction. However, it shouldn’t be something to feel embarrassed about, as 1 in 3 men experience PE at some point in their life. Studies reveal that although PE reduced sexual satisfaction, many women reported that it did not impact their overall relationship.

But what are some of the leading causes of premature ejaculation?

Causes of Premature Ejaculation

Whilst the exact cause of PE is unknown, it is thought to involve various physical and psychological factors.

Physical causes:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Thyroid issues
• Use of recreational drugs
• Excessive alcohol intake

Psychological causes:

• Stress
• Depression
• Relationship issues
• Anxiety – typically about sexual performance

Types of Premature Ejaculation

There are two main types of PE:

Primary PE – This is where PE has always been an issue since the first sexual experience. Primary PE may occur when early sexual experiences influence behaviour later on in life, or if your culture and upbringing is strict about sex.

Secondary PE – Also known as acquired premature ejaculation, this is when PE has developed after never encountering ejaculatory problems in the past. This could be due to physical causes or the stress and anxiety relating to a new relationship forming.

Premature Ejaculation Symptoms

• Ejaculation happens with little control or stimulation.
• Reduced sexual pleasure because of the lack of control over the ejaculation.
• Feelings of embarrassment, frustration and guilt.

Premature Ejaculation Treatment Options

Priligy

Priligy has been specifically designed to help treat PE. It belongs to a group of medicines called ‘selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors’. The active ingredient Dapoxetine increases the activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the nervous system in order to delay ejaculation. Serotonin passes messages between the nerve cells resulting in ejaculation, so by increasing the amount of serotonin that reaches the brain, ejaculation will be delayed and the level of control over the ejaculation may improve too.

Not all men are suitable to use Priligy, in particular those who suffer from liver, kidney or heart problems. Priligy should also not be used in conjunction with antidepressants. An alternative treatment option may be more suitable, such as STUD 100 desensitising spray.

STUD 100

STUD 100 is a desensitising spray applied directly to the penis to help prevent premature ejaculation. STUD 100 spray contains the active ingredient Lidocaine (9.6% w/w), which is a local anaesthetic that helps to reduce the sensitivity of touch to the penis. The desensitising effect of STUD 100 allows sexual intercourse to contiune for longer before ejaculation occurs. This popular treatment for premature ejactualtion can be used as an alternative to the premature ejaculation medication, Priligy.

Behavioural Techniques to Try

Stop-start technique

This is when a man has the urge to ejaculate through sex or sexual stimulation, then allows the feeling to subside by pausing stimulation and starting again. This is repeated several times until you are able to build control during sex without stopping.

Squeeze method

The penis is stimulated until the urge of ejaculation, then activity stops and the head of the penis is squeezed until the sensation lessens. Over time you should recognise the impulse and be able to control it without squeezing.

Pelvic floor exercises

The pelvic floor muscles, also known as PC muscles, are situated between your legs and are technically a layer of supportive muscles. By strengthening them, you can have a stronger control over your ejaculation.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Squeeze and lift the muscles in that area, and then relax them fully. You would want to do that 3 times per day.
2. Hold that squeeze for around 10 seconds, then rest for 3-4 seconds and squeeze again. Strive to do this 10 times.
3. Finally, do 10 quick flicks.

Normally this exercise should take you a couple of minutes each time and you can do it anywhere. Imagine it as if you are holding in urine. Also, make sure that you are not squeezing your thighs, tummy, buttlocks or holding your breath during the exercise.

Topical anaesthetics and condoms

Topical anaesthetics such as Prilocaine and Lidocaine are effective as they desensitise the penis. STUD 100 is an effective desensitising spray available as an alternative to medication. Usually, it is applied 30 minutes before planning to have sex and washed off before intercourse once the feeling in the penis has decreased. If it is left on, it may reduce the sensation for your partner as well.

Condoms are also effective, especially thicker ones, to reduce the sensitivity during sex.

Psychological assistance

As discussed, PE can be caused by psychological factors including depression, stress and anxiety. PE can lower your self-confidence making you feel frustrated about your sexual performance and often increase reluctancy towards starting new relationships. Your partner may suffer in silence as they fear they may upset or offend you. In this case, it is important to talk to a specialist and seek help. Couples therapy may be beneficial if the root cause of your PE is related to relationship issues.