Causes of Premature Ejaculation and Solutions in 2024

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common sexual disorder in men under 40. Several studies have shown that about 80-90% of men with lifelong PE ejaculate within 60 seconds, while the remaining ejaculate within 2 minutes. Historically, PE has been seen as a psychological issue, with no identified physical cause. However, modern studies suggest there might be more to understand.

What is Premature Ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a sexual dysfunction where a man ejaculates sooner than desired, often before or just after penetration. Typically, PE is defined as regularly ejaculating within one minute of starting intercourse, but the timing is personal. You and your partner can decide what feels satisfying in your sexual experience. While there is no set rule for when a man should ejaculate, if you consistently ejaculate and lose your erection too quickly, it can affect your enjoyment. It can feel discouraging, but the encouraging news is that PE is usually treatable.

How Common is Premature Ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most frequently reported sexual dysfunction worldwide. Around 30% of men aged 18 to 59 experience PE, though some studies suggest the rate could be as high as 75%. Additionally, about 30% of men with PE also report erectile dysfunction, where early ejaculation occurs without a full erection.

Although PE can happen at any age, it is most often reported by men aged 18 to 30. In older men, particularly those aged 45 to 65, it commonly coincides with erectile dysfunction. Ethnically, PE may be more common among African Americans (34%) compared to Hispanics (27%) or Whites (29%).

Internationally, the incidence of PE in Europe and India is similar to that in the United States. However, data on its prevalence in other regions like Asia, Australia, and Africa remains unreported.

What Time is Considered Premature Ejaculation?

The time frame that defines premature ejaculation varies. According to the American Urological Association, ejaculation is considered “premature” if it occurs sooner than desired. This can happen before or shortly after penetration and may cause distress for one or both partners.

The American Psychiatric Association categorizes PE into three severity levels: mild, moderate, and severe. Mild PE occurs within one minute of penetration. Many doctors generally agree that ejaculation within a minute of starting intercourse is premature. However, beyond medical definitions, how you and your partner feel about the timing is also important in determining if it’s premature.

Causes of Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation is a complex condition with different proposed causes.

Physical Causes

Several physical conditions may contribute to PE. Urologic conditions, such as chronic prostatitis and varicocele, can affect how the penis functions. In addition, some men may have a hypersensitive penis, which can lead to faster ejaculation.

Medical conditions like thyroid disorders and diabetes also play a role. These conditions may cause hormonal changes that impact sexual function. Furthermore, low serotonin levels have been linked to lifelong premature ejaculation. Some individuals may have genetic differences in serotonin receptors, contributing to this issue.

Nerve damage from neurologic conditions, such as spinal cord injuries or multiple sclerosis, can also lead to premature ejaculation. These physical factors highlight the importance of considering overall health when addressing this condition.

Psychological Causes

Psychological factors significantly influence PE as well. Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, negatively affect sexual experiences. Men who have experienced childhood sexual abuse are also at a higher risk, being twice as likely to face this issue.

Relationship problems can also contribute to PE. Feeling nervous or uncomfortable with a partner may lead to difficulties during sexual activity. In addition, concerns about body image impact sexual function and contribute to PE in some cases.

Alcohol misuse is another common cause of sexual dysfunction, including premature ejaculation. It significantly affects sexual performance and overall health.

What is the Most Effective Treatment for Premature Ejaculation?

Treating premature ejaculation involves a combination of self-help techniques, behavioral therapy, and medications. The most effective treatment approach may vary depending on individual needs.

1. Changing Your Sexual Routine

In some cases, making changes to your sexual routine can help. One approach is to masturbate an hour or so before intercourse, as this may help delay ejaculation with your partner. Another approach is to temporarily avoid intercourse and engage in other sexual activities with your partner. This can relieve the pressure of performance and enhance intimacy.

2. Behavioral Techniques

Two popular behavioral techniques for managing premature ejaculation are the start-and-stop method and the squeeze method. These techniques involve working with your partner to help you better control ejaculation.

The start-and-stop method involves stimulating the penis until you’re close to ejaculation, then stopping until you feel in control again. This process is repeated two more times before allowing yourself to ejaculate on the fourth attempt.

The squeeze method involves stimulating the penis until you’re close to ejaculation, then firmly squeezing the penis until the erection starts to weaken. This helps you become more aware of the sensations leading up to ejaculation and can help you develop better control.

3. Pelvic Floor Exercises

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegel maneuvers can also help improve control over ejaculation. To do Kegel exercises, tighten the pelvic floor muscles for a count of three, then relax for a count of three. Repeat this process several times daily, working up to three sets of 10 repetitions.

4. Decreasing Sensitivity

Reducing sensitivity during intercourse may help you maintain your erection longer. Using condoms can lessen sensitivity and delay ejaculation. Some condoms are specifically designed for “climax control” and contain numbing agents like benzocaine. You can also apply numbing creams to your penis about 15 minutes before intercourse, but consult your doctor first.

5. ED Medications

If erectile dysfunction (ED) contributes to your premature ejaculation, talk with your doctor about ED medications. Options like tadalafil (Cialis) and sildenafil (Viagra) may help maintain your erection and delay ejaculation. These medications usually take about an hour to work, and finding the right dose may require some adjustments.

The Bottom Line

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common issue with both physical and psychological causes. It can be treated through behavioral techniques, pelvic floor exercises, and in some cases, medications. If you’re struggling with PE, solutions are available, and you can regain control. If you’re looking to improve your sexual health and overall well-being, consider exploring our personalized fitness plans. Get your personalized fitness plan from us to improve overall wellness and boost your confidence in the bedroom!