Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual complaint. It can be lifelong or acquired later, and the key feature is that it causes distress or relationship difficulty, not just timing. Causes can be psychological, such as anxiety and over-arousal, or biological, and it sometimes coexists with erectile dysfunction, where rushing stems from worry about losing the erection.
Effective approaches include behavioural techniques like the start-stop and squeeze methods, pelvic floor exercises, reducing performance anxiety, and topical numbing products that reduce sensitivity. Some prescription medicines, including certain antidepressants used for their delaying side effect, can help when supervised by a doctor. If ED is also present, treating that often improves control.
See a doctor or use a telehealth service if PE is distressing or persistent. It is a recognised, treatable condition, and an assessment can tailor the right combination of techniques and, if needed, medication.