Having an enjoyable and healthy sex life contributes significantly to your quality of life, but sometimes problems, such as premature ejaculation, arise. This can affect your relationship and also have an impact on your mental health and self-esteem.
What is premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation is when a man orgasms too soon; before 30 minutes into sex, or within a minute after penetration. Most men will experience this occasionally, and it won’t affect overall sexual enjoyment. But if you’re coming too soon during at least half the times you have sex, you may need to speak to your doctor.
What causes early ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation can be caused by psychological and/or physical problems, or sometimes, just age. Common causes include:.
- Prostate problems.
- An overactive or underactive thyroid gland.
- An extremely sensitive penis.
- Diabetes.
- Tissue damage.
- Medication side-effects.
- Recreational drug use or abuse.
- Stress.
- Relationship problems.
- Anxiety about sexual performance.
- Traumatic childhood sexual experiences.
- Conservative beliefs about sex.
- Unrealistic beliefs about sex.
Treating premature ejaculation

As premature ejaculation can have both physical and psychological causes, it is treated with either therapy or medication, to address the underlying condition. You can also try some exercises at home with your partner, which can be enjoyable for you both.
Exercises

The stop start method involves your partner arousing you until just before orgasm. They then stop for you to control the urge to ejaculate. When you’re in control again, ask them to start stimulating you again. Do this three times before you climax. Have sex three times a week (or more) using this method with your partner until you feel more in control.
The squeeze method also involves your partner, who will again stimulate your penis until you’re close to coming, then squeeze it, so your erection softens. This method helps you become more aware of what sensations lead to your orgasm. The more you recognise them, the more you’ll be able to control when you come.
Therapy

Therapy can help with the relationship problems, anxiety, stress and any negative beliefs about sex that may cause early ejaculation. It helps to identify the main psychological cause of the problem which improves the quality of your sex life, and your partner’s.
Numbing creams or sprays

With this treatment your timing must be spot on. If you leave the spray or cream on too long your erection may go away; too short and you will still come too early. Take your doctor or pharmacist’s advice before using them, and always wipe off before penetrating your partner as they may become numb as well, making for very unsatisfying sex.
Condoms

Some men find wearing a condom, or an extra-thick one, delays orgasm.
Medication 

Your doctor may prescribe you an antidepressant, as a common side-effect of these medications is delayed orgasm.
There is a stigma around premature ejaculation, but it can be treated. Be honest and speak openly with your doctor if you think you may have a problem. A healthy sex life means a healthy you.