Premature ejaculation (PE) is the lack of control a man has over ejaculation. It is the most common sexual concern reported by Australian men. PE can occur during foreplay, on insertion, or shortly after penetration.
Symptoms
The main signs of premature ejaculation include:
- Ejaculation taking place in next to no time — usually within 1-3 minutes after vaginal penetration
- Inability to control ejaculation before or after penetration
- Distress and frustration about lack of control
- Avoidance of sexual intimacy because of the issue
Common Causes
Premature ejaculation can have a variety of causes — many of them psychological:
- Early sexual experiences — conditioning that may persist into adulthood
- Rushing during intimate moments — e.g. fear of being caught
- Relationship difficulties and emotional strain between partners
- Frustration, emotional stress, or depression
- Sexual abstinence over long periods
- Performance anxiety
- Hormonal imbalances or oversensitivity
Risk Factors
PE can affect men of any age, but the chance of experiencing it is higher when one or more of these factors is present:
- Anxiety and stress — either ongoing life stress or anxiety specifically about sexual performance
- Co-occurring erectile dysfunction — men sometimes rush in anticipation of losing their erection
- Hormonal factors — thyroid problems or imbalances in serotonin levels
- Inflammation or infection of the prostate or urethra
- Genetic predisposition — PE can sometimes run in families
Self-Help Techniques
Many men find that simple behavioural techniques, used consistently, can extend control. These are commonly recommended by Australian sexual health clinicians:
- The start-stop technique — pause stimulation just before the point of ejaculation, wait until the urge subsides, then resume. Repeat a few times before allowing climax.
- The squeeze method — gently squeeze the head of the penis for a few seconds when close to ejaculation, then resume after the urge passes.
- Pelvic floor exercises — the same Kegel exercises used by women also help men strengthen control. Tighten the muscle used to stop urinating, hold three seconds, release. Repeat in sets of 10.
- Mindful breathing — slow, deep breathing during sex helps reduce arousal-spiking anxiety.
- Reduce performance pressure — talking openly with a partner often takes the urgency out of intercourse.
Impact on Relationships
PE often causes distress and emotional tension between a man and his partner. It can lead to anxiety, avoidance of intimacy, and over time may affect the stability of a relationship. Recognising PE as a treatable condition is the first step toward improving things.
Treatment
The most effective approach is to seek professional medical guidance — either from your GP or a sexual health specialist. Several treatment options exist, including:
- Behavioural techniques (start-stop, squeeze method)
- Topical anaesthetics
- Oral medications
- Counselling or sex therapy
- Treating any underlying conditions, including erectile dysfunction
PE and ED Often Co-Occur
Premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction often appear together. Some men rush to ejaculate because they fear losing their erection. Treating ED with medication like sildenafil (the active ingredient in Kamagra) can sometimes help with PE indirectly by reducing performance anxiety.
Last reviewed: 9 May 2026. Information on this page is general in nature. For diagnosis or treatment of PE, consult a registered Australian healthcare professional.