Premature Ejaculation: What It Is and How to Handle It

If you find yourself finishing too quickly during sex and it’s stressing you out, you’re not alone. Premature ejaculation (PE) affects many men, and the good news is there are simple steps you can try right now to get better control.

Why Does PE Happen?

PE isn’t always a sign of a bigger problem. It can pop up because of stress, anxiety, or even a lack of experience. Sometimes the nervous system is just wired to react fast, especially if you’re young or have never practiced staying calm during arousal. Hormone changes, thyroid issues, or inflammation in the prostate can also play a part, but most cases are linked to how the brain and nerves talk to each other during sex.

Everyday Moves That Can Help

Start‑stop technique: When you feel the urge to ejaculate, pause stimulation for about 30 seconds, then start again. Doing this a few times in a session teaches your body to hold back.

Squeeze method: Just before climax, gently squeeze the head of the penis for a few seconds until the urge lessens. It sounds odd, but many men find it useful.

Kegel exercises: These strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that control ejaculation. To find the right muscles, try stopping urine mid‑stream. Do three sets of ten squeezes a day, holding each squeeze for a few seconds.

Adding a condom can also dull sensation enough to stretch out the time without feeling “dead.” Look for thin, lubricated condoms designed for sensation.

When Simple Tricks Aren’t Enough

If you’ve tried the above for a few weeks and still can’t last longer, it might be time to talk to a doctor. Prescription options include:

  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – low doses of medicines like sertraline can delay ejaculation.
  • Topical anesthetic sprays – a light numbing spray reduces sensation on the penis.
  • Tramadol – an off‑label pain medication that can help some men, but it has a risk of dependence.

These drugs work best when combined with the behavioral tricks above and a calm mindset.

Mind‑Body Reset

Stress is a major PE trigger. A short breathing routine before sex can lower the adrenaline spike. Try inhaling for four seconds, holding for four, then exhaling for four. Do it a few times, and you’ll notice a steadier pace.

Talking openly with your partner makes a huge difference. When both of you know the plan – whether it’s using the start‑stop method or taking a short break – the pressure drops and the experience improves.

Finally, remember that improvement takes time. Even a few extra seconds each week add up. Keep a simple log: note the time you last longer, what you tried, and how you felt. Patterns will emerge, and you’ll see what works best for you.

Premature ejaculation can feel like a roadblock, but with a mix of practical tricks, a bit of therapy, and maybe a prescription, most men get the control they want. Start with the easy moves, stay patient, and don’t hesitate to ask a health professional for a hand when you need it.