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COMMON CONDITIONS: MEN’S PROBLEMS 123

Premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation, in which a man reaches orgasm and ejaculates with minimum stimulation, just before
or shortly after penetration, is a common sexual problem, especially for young men. The problem is mainly
due to excitement and/or anxiety and often occurs at the start of a new relationship and resolves itself over
time. However, recurrent premature ejaculation can be physically and emotionally frustrating for both partners
and may harm a relationship. Stress and depression aggravate the condition; some men become so anxious
they have difficulty getting an erection. Rarely, the cause is a prostate or nervous system problem.
See also Erectile dysfunction, opposite page.

What you can do yourself
PRACTICAL TECHNIQUE
Because anxiety is a major part of premature
ejaculation, talking about the problem with your The squeeze technique This method
partner may help to resolve it. There are also of preventing premature ejaculation can be carried
several techniques you can try. out by you or your partner.
● When you feel you’re about to ejaculate, use your
● If you are in a long-term relationship, share your
thumb and forefinger to squeeze the shaft of the
feelings with your partner. Discuss the problem
calmly and good-humoredly when you are not penis just below the head, as shown below. This
causes your erection to be partially lost, temporarily
engaged in sex. Don’t blame yourself or feel guilty.
preventing ejaculation.
● Some men find wearing a condom dulls ● By practicing this technique regularly, you can
sensation sufficiently to delay ejaculation. Some achieve greater control over ejaculation, and this will
types of condom have a desensitizing lubricant boost your sexual confidence. Eventually, you will no
inside that contains a mild topical anesthetic. longer need to use the technique.
These may be even more effective. Don’t try using Apply pressure
anesthetic gel without a condom – it will reduce Use the thumb and
sensation in your partner, too. forefinger to apply
pressure just behind
● Try using the squeeze technique (see PRACTICAL the head of the
TECHNIQUE, right) to help you control ejaculation. penis, on the upper
and lower sides.
● Focus your attention on your partner’s pleasure
during foreplay and delay penetration for as long
as possible. If your partner is close to or has
reached orgasm before penetration, you will both
feel less anxious about premature ejaculation.
● Try experimenting with different sexual positions.
Having your partner on top, for example, may be
less stimulating and help you delay ejaculation. Seek medical advice
● During intercourse, distract yourself by thinking Arrange to see your doctor if:
about something totally unrelated and somewhat ● You continue to experience premature
dull: count backward in threes or think about work. ejaculation after following the advice here