One of the most common types of sexual issues that a large percentage of men face is premature ejaculation. In layman terms, it is when a man ejaculates faster than he or his partner wants.
Research done on 500 couples from five different countries across the globe has indicated that, on average, men take 5.5 minutes to ejaculate after starting of intercourse. However, there are no hard and fast rules on how long an erection should last, as it is up to the decision of each couple.
For many men (as well as their partners), premature ejaculations can be embarrassing and frustrating. In addition, you may feel that you cannot satisfy your partner and don’t get enough time to enjoy sex.
All men at some point may get occasional episodes of premature ejaculation due to stress or other health reasons, which is not an issue of worry.
But if you are noticing that you are getting premature ejaculation in more than half of your sexual attempts, it is high time you should seek medical treatment.
The article is a part of our comprehensive series of blogs on “Premature Ejaculation”.
Premature ejaculation treatment options
Let us take a closer look at some of the treatment options for premature ejaculation.
1. Medications
1.1 Antidepressants(SSRs)
Anti depression medications such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are primarily formulated to treat depression, but they are also helpful in treating premature ejaculation.
Antidepressants include:
- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
- Paroxetine
The results are quick and are visible within a few days after taking the medication. However, to experience the full effect, you need to consume it at least for a few weeks.
Some less common side effects include fatigue, excessive sweating, diarrhoea.
1.2 Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors
These are well known for their positive effect in enhancing the time taken for ejaculation if erection is also an issue. One of the popular phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors is Sildenafil (or Viagra in layman’s terms).
1.3 Dapoxetine
This is another selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is specifically formulated to treat premature ejaculation. The effects are much faster than Viagra, and you need to consume it a few hours before having sex for the desired results.
This medication is commonly not prescribed if you are already using other medication for a psychiatric disorder. This is because Dapoxetine can also interact with certain other drugs, such as antidepressants.
1.4 Lidocaine spray/cream
These are ideal for extending the time for ejaculation by reducing the sensitivity when applied to the penis.
However if not covered or fully removed before penetration, anaesthetics such as Prilocaine and Lidocaine can be absorbed by the vagina leading to decreased pleasure during sex.
Lidocaine is also available in the form of cream, but it does not work as fast as the spray options.
Check out other similar medication options for premature ejaculation here!
2. Supplements
Zinc and Magnesium are known to improve testosterone levels in the blood. Although more study is needed to understand the link between these elements and sexual function, scientists are fairly sure about the fact that elements such as magnesium and zinc play a pivotal role in:
- Increasing the time for ejaculation.
- Improving the sensitivity & endurance levels.
Supplementing zinc and magnesium-rich foods such as seeds, nuts, legumes, and fish such as salmon can sometimes improve the overall sexual function and time for ejaculation.
3. Behavioural therapy
In this treatment method, training is given to control your body and feelings. These techniques are often useful and the primary cause of premature ejaculation is stress or anxiety.
4. Start and stop technique
This is a simple method in which your penis is stimulated close to orgasm, and a delay time of 30 seconds is given.
The overall process is repeated three to four times until you ejaculate.
5. Distraction technique
The technique is exactly as the name suggests. It is about distracting the mind and to get it to relax so as to prolong the time of ejaculation.
During sexual intercourse, if you feel that you are getting aroused and at the brim of climax, take a deep breath and think of something different that will divert the mind, such as the last TV show you have watched or the colour of dress your coworker wore to the office.
6. Pause and Squeeze technique
This method works almost similar to that of the start and stop method. However, the main difference is that here you or your partner tightly squeezes the head of the penis until it loses the erection.
This method is repeated many times before ejaculation. Best done during foreplay for better results.
7. Counselling
There are times in which the root cause of your PE is psychological and not physical. For example, people who are suffering from mental health issues such as anxiety, stress, depression etc., won’t be able to retain their erection for a long time.
In such a case, attending a few counselling sessions by a trained psychologist can help you solve the problem.
8. Kegel exercises
If the muscles of your pelvic region are not strong, there is a high chance that it contributes to premature ejaculation. Regularly practising Kegel exercises can help to build strength.
In this method, tighten the pelvic floor muscles and retain the contraction for a few seconds. Then relax the muscles and again contract.
Do this process a few times in a row.
Bottom Line
Premature ejaculation is a commonly found problem in men. If you feel that you are having such an issue, the best thing to do is to consult a certified medical practitioner.
The article provides guidance on some of the proven methods to successfully overcome premature ejaculation. Ensure that you maintain open communication with your partner. This will help you to devise a strategy for treatment and recovery.
