Some simple techniques can help to stop this frustrating problem.
Dr Jeni Worden last medically reviewed this article in February 2010.
Premature ejaculation
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What is premature ejaculation?
This is one of the most common sexual problems in men. It's particularly common in younger men when sexual activity is relatively new, and for any man who's with a new sexual partner, since under these circumstances the level of sexual excitement is very high.
When premature ejaculation becomes a problem, men suffer with performance anxiety. They worry about ejaculating prematurely, it happens, and they find themselves in a downward spiral.
Treatments for premature ejaculation
Sex therapists recommend a few straightforward techniques to prevent or delay ejaculation. You can practice these on your own or with your partner:
- Take a deep breath as you feel your climax approaching. This will briefly switch off the ejaculation reflex.
- The squeeze technique involves squeezing below the tip of your penis when the climax is imminent for 10 to 20 seconds.
- It helps to think about something boring at the same time to take your mind off more exciting things.
- During foreplay or intercourse, stopping and starting sexual stimulation helps to lengthen the time taken to reach climax, and can be combined with the squeeze technique.
If you keep practising and stay relaxed, you should find that the problem disappears.
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