What Is Premature Ejaculation (PE)?
Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common sexual concerns for men. It happens when ejaculation occurs sooner than a person or their partner desires, often within a minute of penetration. While occasional early ejaculation is normal, frequent or persistent PE can impact confidence, relationships, and overall sexual satisfaction.
If you’ve been wondering how to last longer in bed, you’re not alone. Many men experience this issue, and the good news is that there are effective techniques and treatments available.
How Do I Know If I Have PE?
PE is typically classified into two types:
- Lifelong PE: Occurs consistently from a man's first sexual experience.
- Acquired PE: Develops over time, even if a man previously had normal ejaculatory control.
A healthcare professional can help diagnose PE by evaluating your symptoms, medical history, and any underlying conditions contributing to the issue.
What Causes PE?
The causes of PE can be complex and may include:
- Psychological Factors: Anxiety, stress, guilt, or past sexual trauma.
- Biological Factors: Hormonal imbalances, inflammation of the prostate, or abnormal neurotransmitter activity.
- Lifestyle Factors: Excessive pornography consumption, lack of sexual confidence, or relationship issues.
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How to Last Longer in Bed
If you want to increase your sexual stamina, here are some science-backed techniques to try:
1. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels)
Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can improve ejaculatory control. To do Kegels:
- Contract the muscles you use to stop urination.
- Hold for a few seconds, then release.
- Repeat 10-15 times, a few times per day.
2. The Stop-Start Method
Also called the “pause technique,” this involves stopping stimulation when you feel close to climax, taking a short break, and then resuming.
3. The Squeeze Technique
This method involves gently squeezing the base of the penis when you feel close to ejaculation. This can help delay orgasm and prolong intercourse.
4. Masturbate Before Sex
Some men find that masturbating an hour or two before sex helps reduce sensitivity and delays ejaculation.
5. Use Thicker Condoms
Thicker condoms reduce sensitivity, which may help you last longer.
6. Apply Numbing Sprays or Wipes
Products containing lidocaine or benzocaine can reduce sensitivity without eliminating pleasure.
7. Focus on Deep Breathing and Relaxation
Anxiety and tension can worsen PE. Practicing mindfulness or breathing techniques can help you stay relaxed and in control.
8. Communicate with Your Partner
Talking openly with your partner about PE can reduce pressure and improve intimacy. Exploring different positions and focusing on non-penetrative sexual activities can also enhance pleasure.
Medical Treatments
If behavioral techniques alone aren’t enough, medical treatments may help:
1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Certain antidepressants, such as sertraline and paroxetine, are sometimes prescribed off-label to help delay ejaculation.
2. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Medications
Drugs like sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis) may help improve ejaculatory control by increasing confidence and sustaining erections.
3. Counseling and Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can address underlying anxiety and performance-related concerns that contribute to PE.
Check if your symptoms are normal

When to See a Doctor
If PE is affecting your confidence, relationship, or overall well-being, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider. At Abby Health, we offer discreet, online consultations with licensed doctors who can assess your symptoms and recommend treatment options tailored to your needs.
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Book an Appointment
Premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition. By using the right techniques and treatments, you can improve your sexual stamina and overall satisfaction.
Want to explore your options? Book an online consultation with an Abby Health doctor today.
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- Chu A, et al. (2022). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/
- Corty E, et al. (2008). Canadian and American sex therapists' perceptions of normal and abnormal ejaculatory latencies: how long should intercourse last? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18331255/
- Crowdis M, et al. (2022). Premature Ejaculation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546701/
- InformedHealth.org. (2019). Premature ejaculation: What can I do on my own? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547551/
- Myers C, et al. (2019). Pelvic floor muscle training improves erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation: a systematic review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30979506/
- O’Leary M. (2004). Managing Early Ejaculation: What Does the Future Hold? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472672/
- Shabsigh R, et al. (2017). PD69-02 Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial of Topical 4% Benzocaine Wipes for Management of Premature Ejaculation: Interim Analysis. https://www.auajournals.org/doi/10.1016/j.juro.2017.02.3143/
- Waldinger M, et al. (2005). A multinational population survey of intravaginal ejaculation latency time. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16422843/
- Wang Z, et al. (2022). Efficacy evaluation of thickened condom in the treatment of premature ejaculation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8899143/
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