Research shows that the average time for a man to ejaculate is thought to be about 5 and a half minutes after starting sex. Premature ejaculation is defined as regularly ejaculating within 1 minute of entering your partner. However, it really depends on the couple to decide whether they're happy with the time it takes. When ejaculation happens sooner than a man or his partner would like during sex, it can be frustrating and makes sex less enjoyable, especially if it happens frequently.

There are two classifications of premature ejaculation: primary ejaculation is when the man always had the problem. Secondary ejaculation is when the man developed the problem recently, this could be due to a medical condition.

Although the exact cause of premature ejaculation is not known, some research shows serotonin levels in the brain may play a role. The increased length of time for ejaculation is related to high amounts of serotonin in the brain. On the contrary, low amounts of serotonin in the brain can shorten the time of ejaculation, which lead to premature ejaculation.

Psychological issues related to PE include: stress, depression, lack of confidence, unrealistic expectations about sexual performance and relationship problems.
Biological causes of PE include: irregular levels of brain chemicals, irregular hormone levels, inherited traits, swelling and infection of the prostate or urethra.
Other related factors include ageing, which can cause changes in erections and ejaculation in men. Older men may notice changes in their erections, it may not be as firm, as large or lasts as long. Erectile dysfunction may result in the man feeling anxious about their erection which leads to a pattern of rushing to ejaculate. Sexual performance anxiety and relationship issues are thought to be a common cause of premature ejaculation.

The main treatments of premature ejaculation include: psychological therapy, behavioural therapy and medications.

Psychological therapy involves working through the emotions that lead to problems with sexual relationships. This therapy helps identify the source of the problems and find solutions that may help PE. It can also provide guidance for couples to have a better understanding of their partner's satisfaction.

Behavioural therapy involves techniques and exercises to help the man build tolerance to delay ejaculation. Some techniques include 'squeeze method' and 'stop-start method'.
The squeeze method involves your partner firmly squeezing your penis when you are close to ejaculation, the goal of this method is to help the man to become aware of the sensations leading to climax.
The stop-start method is an exercise that helps the man gain control by stopping sexual stimulation right before the urge to climax. As the man regains control, he or their partner may start stimulating the penis again. The process should be repeated 3 times and ejaculation may occur on the fourth time. It is advised to repeat this method 3 times a week until more control is gained.

There are a number of medications including oral tablets, numbing creams, gels and sprays that helps slow ejaculation in men with premature ejaculations. Medications such as Priligy works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, in turn, delay ejaculation. Anaesthetic (numbing) creams such as lidocaine works by making the penis less sensitive which helps delay ejaculation. If you are in doubt which treatment option is best for you, feel free to reach out to us, we are here to help.

Using a thick condom can decrease the sensation and help slow down the time of ejaculation. Other self help techniques include masturbating a few hours before having sex, breathing techniques and taking breaks during intercourse.

Priligy contains the active ingredient dapoxetine. This medicine works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, in turn, delay ejaculation.
Priligy works similar to antidepressant medications, however the difference is it works more quickly and remains in the body for less time. This medicine is indicated for premature ejaculation and should not be taken as an antidepressant.

A single tablet of priligy will reach maximum levels in 1 to 3 hours, which provides sufficient time for the male to engage in sexual intercourse without feeling the pressure. Priligy should not be taken on a regular basis, do not repeat a dose within 24 hours.