How do I know if I have premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation affects many men. It may not be a permanent problem and may come and go at certain times. One question we get asked a lot is, how is premature ejaculation defined? How do I know if I have it or not?
Premature ejaculation occurs when it is impossible for a man to delay ejaculation for longer than one to two minutes. In many cases, ejaculation occurs before or immediately upon vaginal penetration. It becomes impossible for you to control your ejaculation.
This causes embarrassment, frustration and even depression because you cannot enjoy sex with your partner.
According to recent studies, the average time that a man can last is somewhere between three and seven minutes. The same study suggests that women find seven to thirteen minutes desirable with anything over thirteen minutes being defined as lasting too long. Although the report did suggest that some women find ten minutes too long.
What is causing my Premature ejaculation?
If you become overexcited, for example, during foreplay it can cause you to climax too soon. Your early sexual experiences can also be a factor. Your early encounters may lead to premature ejaculation because you didn’t know quite what to expect.
Sometimes you may become too excited early on during sex. Similarly, if your partner overstimulates you during foreplay you may not be able to control your ejaculation.
Other factors include stress, depression and embarrassment.
Rarely, are there any medical factors giving rise to premature ejaculation but the Doctor will explore all possibilities at your consultation.
The Doctor will explore what might be the triggers for your premature ejaculation. Questions may include
- Do you climax too soon every time or only at certain times?
- Do you climax before you penetrate your partner?
- How long have you had this problem?
- Is this causing a problem in your relationship
- How is your partner helping you overcome this problem?
- Do you feel this is affecting your quality of life?