Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation is when ejaculation happens sooner than a person or their partner would like during sex. It's the most common male sexual concern and is very treatable
About premature ejaculation
It can be lifelong (present since first sexual experiences) or acquired later in life, and may relate to a mix of physical sensitivity, psychological factors like anxiety, relationship dynamics, or, occasionally, an underlying condition. It's not usually a sign of a serious physical problem
Treatments
Symptoms
• Ejaculation occurring sooner than desired, often within a minute of penetration
• Little or no control over timing
• Distress, frustration or avoidance of sexual intimacy
• Impact on the relationship or self-confidence
Diagnosis
Premature ejaculation is usually diagnosed based on a description of symptoms and their impact, along with a brief history to check for contributing factors such as anxiety, relationship issues, or other sexual health conditions like erectile dysfunction
Treatment
Options include topical anaesthetic creams or sprays applied before sex to reduce sensitivity, certain antidepressants (SSRIs) used off-label or a licensed short-acting option for their side effect of delaying ejaculation, and behavioural techniques such as the "start-stop" or "squeeze" method, sometimes alongside psychosexual counselling
Prevention and self-care
• Practise behavioural techniques regularly, as they often improve control over time
• Communicate openly with a partner to reduce performance pressure
• Address anxiety or stress that may be contributing
• Consider counselling if psychological factors are significant
• Avoid excessive alcohol before sex, as it can affect performance
• Be patient, as improvement with treatment often takes a few weeks
Reviewed by Hamza Iqbal Naheed, Superintendent Pharmacist, GPhC 2209194 (check the register) · Last updated 22 September 2026