Q: How do I overcome premature ejaculation?
A: Premature ejaculation (PE), also called rapid or early ejaculation, is a very common male sexual dysfunction. It can happen with a new partner, in certain situations or if it’s been a while since your last ejaculation. Performance anxiety, guilt and depression can cause PE. Also, certain medical problems can cause PE such as hormonal issues and medication side effects. So, we first suggest you talk to your doctor to rule out any medical causes. If there are no medical issues, here are several techniques you can use to help:
- Stop – Start Technique: You start this technique by yourself by masturbating and bringing yourself close to your moment of ejaculatory inevitability (the sensations you experience just before you have an orgasm). Remember, if you pass this threshold, you are not able to delay your ejaculation. Once at that moment of inevitability, you stop and relax. Then, you start again. Once at that moment of inevitability, you stop and relax again. You continue this process of practicing getting yourself closer to orgasm and then stopping. Once you feel you have mastered this technique, you can use this technique with your partner.
- Squeeze Technique: Again, you start practicing this technique by yourself. Instead of simply stopping at the point of inevitability, you squeeze the base of your penis to reduce your erection and stop ejaculation. Once you practice and master this technique, you can use this technique with your partner.
- Kegel Exercises: These exercises help strengthen your PC muscles which can help control ejaculation. The PC muscle is the muscle that allows you to stop the flow of your urine when urinating. However, once you find your PC muscle, do not practice Kegel exercises when you are urinating. Kegel exercises consist of tightening and releasing the muscles repeatedly for 5-10 seconds for approximately 10-15 reps. You can contract your PC muscle when close to the moment of inevitability to slow delay ejaculation.
- SSRI Antidepressants: Some doctors are prescribing SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) to help men suffering from PE. SSRIs are a type of antidepressants such as Paxil and Zoloft. These drugs are used due to their side effects of inhibiting sexual arousal and delaying orgasm. You would need to talk to your doctor about this option.
Hope these help!
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