Premature ejaculation is a common problem that can cause distress for both partners in a relationship. Fortunately, it’s often treatable.
Behavioral techniques and medications can help. Some men use a technique called “edging,” which involves stimulating the penis until just before orgasm, then stopping stimulation. Some sex therapists offer this technique.
Stopping-start technique
Many men reach orgasm before penetration or within a minute of starting, and this early ejaculation causes their partner a lot of discomfort. It can also be extremely stressful for the man himself. There are various techniques that can be used to delay ejaculation. These range from behavioral to medical interventions. A urologist can help a man find an approach that is right for him.
The stopping-start technique involves stimulating the penis until a man feels that orgasm is about to occur, then withholding stimulation for several seconds until the sensation to cum passes. This is repeated a few times to train the body to recognize that arousal can be controlled and delayed for a while. A partner can assist by squeezing the head of the penis fairly firmly to stop the impulse.
Other methods include focusing on nonsexual things while being sexually stimulated, like naming the businesses you pass on your drive to the gym or counting the items in a supermarket aisle. Some medications can also be used to slow ejaculation, although they are not FDA-approved for this purpose. A urologist can refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist, couples therapist or sex therapist who might be able to recommend an appropriate medication.
Premature ejaculation is common, but it is usually not life-threatening and is easily treatable. Talking to a sex therapist or urologist can help you gain control of your situation and reduce the strain on your relationship.
Pelvic floor exercises
A common way to control PE is to perform pelvic floor exercises. These exercises, also known as Kegels, can strengthen the muscles that support the urethra and anus in women and men. They can be done from the sitting, standing or lying down position. The muscles are activated by voluntary contraction or squeezing. Performing these exercises regularly can help prevent PE and delay orgasm during intercourse.
Another method of preventing PE is to wear a condom. The condom reduces sensation on the penis, so it takes longer to reach orgasm. It can also be helpful to stimulate your partner to a high level of arousal before you start sexual activity. In addition, masturbating a few hours before sex can help you last longer. In addition, you can use other techniques to distract yourself from the urge to ejaculate. One of these is to focus on ordinary nonsexual activities, such as naming the businesses you see while driving.
Weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to PE, so it is important to exercise them regularly. To do a Kegel, sit down and relax your buttocks, thighs and stomach. Tighten your pelvic floor muscles for three seconds, then relax them for three seconds. Repeat this for 10 times, or as many times as you can, to build your strength. You can also try the happy baby pose, which is a yoga stretch that can strengthen your pelvic muscles.
Numbing creams
Premature ejaculation (PE) is when you ejaculate during sexual intercourse sooner than your partner would like or before you reach an orgasm. It can be frustrating for you and your partner, but it’s usually fixable. There are exercises and sex techniques that can help. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication.
Numbing creams, such as EMLA (lidocaine and prilocaine), can make your penis less sensitive, which may delay ejaculation. The cream should be applied on the head of your penis before you start having sex and washed off afterward. Using a condom can further reduce sensation on the head of your penis and make PE less likely.
Anesthetic creams and sprays that you apply to the head of your penis can also help delay PE. These medications are formulated to not cause an erection, so you must wash them off before having sex to avoid numbness to the vagina and anal area. Using a condom can further help because the condom will blunt sensation on your penis.
Another method for delaying PE is called the “squeeze” technique. Basically, you stimulate the penis with your hand or a sex toy until you feel ready to ejaculate. Then you stop stimulating the penis and wait 30 seconds. Then you start up again, repeating this process until you are no longer feeling ready to ejaculate.
Counseling
Many men experience ejaculation problems because of sexual performance anxiety or feelings of inadequacy. These feelings can be related to a past trauma or mental health issues. In such cases, it’s important to seek professional help. Sex therapists and counselors can teach you techniques to avoid premature ejaculation while having sex. Some of these techniques are behavioral, while others involve medications and numbing creams.
Behavioral therapy can include mindfulness or distraction techniques. These techniques can reduce sexual arousal and decrease the likelihood of early ejaculation. It’s also helpful to practice different methods by yourself to see what works best for you. Some of these techniques might be uncomfortable for your partner, so be sure to discuss them with your partner ahead of time.
Some people also benefit from using a condom. The numbing effect of the condom can decrease sensation on the penis, so it’s easier to control your ejaculation. Some people also enjoy sex toys, which can stimulate the penis without causing ejaculation. Other people like the “edging” technique, which involves bringing the penis to the edge of orgasm and then stopping stimulation for 30 seconds.
Premature ejaculation while having sex is a common problem that can affect both men and women. It’s usually not a sign of a serious underlying health condition, but it can be distressing for couples. Treatment options for PE include behavior techniques and medications.
