Understanding Delayed Ejaculation: Signs, Causes, and Solutions
Delayed ejaculation is when a man takes too long or can't ejaculate during sex.
It can result from psychological issues like anxiety or depression, or medical problems like diabetes or nerve damage.
Also, the use of certain medications (especially antidepressants) can contribute to it.
Though less discussed, delayed ejaculation can also affect both relationships and self-confidence.
This blog will explore the key causes and warning signs to watch for delayed ejaculation.
Also, explore the effective treatment options to help restore sexual satisfaction.
What is Delayed Ejaculation?
Delayed ejaculation is when a man takes too long to ejaculate or can't, despite arousal.
It may occur occasionally or persist long-term.
While not medically serious, it can cause stress and relationship issues.
Treatment options are available and depend on the root causes.
What are the Symptoms of Delayed Ejaculation?
Delayed ejaculation is a sexual dysfunction that involves taking over 30 minutes or being unable to ejaculate.
Some men only respond to manual or oral stimulation.
It can be lifelong or develop later, with lifelong cases often affecting all sexual situations.
Situational delayed ejaculation happens only with specific partners or circumstances.
In some cases, it may signal underlying health issues like diabetes or heart disease.
What Causes Delayed Ejaculation?
Delayed ejaculation (DE) can result from several health factors.
It can stem from psychological issues, health conditions, medications, or physical damage.
Psychological causes
It includes past trauma, cultural or religious taboos, anxiety, depression, and relationship stress.
These Psychological factors can suppress desire and delay or prevent ejaculation among males.
The following factors may appear only during partnered sex but not during masturbation.
Medications
Use of certain medicines that may contribute to delayed ejaculation(DE) include:
- Antidepressants (e.g., Fluoxetine/Prozac)
- Antipsychotics (e.g., Thioridazine/Mellaril)
- Diuretics
- Blood pressure drugs (e.g., Propranolol)
- Alcohol
Physical causes
Below are some of the most common physical causes that can lead to delayed ejaculation(DE):
- Nerve damage from prostate surgery
- Prostate or urinary infections
- Low thyroid or testosterone levels
- Spinal or pelvic nerve damage
- Heart conditions affecting pelvic blood flow
- Neuropathy or stroke
- Congenital issues affecting ejaculation
Anxiety and depression can trigger or worsen DE, even after physical treatment.
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Complications Due to Delayed Ejaculation
Delayed ejaculation can lead to low self-esteem, sexual anxiety, and emotional distress.
Men may avoid intimacy due to fear of failure or frustration.
Common complications include:
- Anxiety around sex
- Reduced libido and sexual pleasure
- Difficulty conceiving or male infertility
- Relationship stress and conflicts
Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, with partners feeling undesired.
This can cause emotional distance and embarrassment.
Counselling, therapy, and communication can help couples understand and manage the condition.
Explore how stress can lead to erection problems
What Can I Expect in the Long Term With DE?
Delayed ejaculation has many causes, but effective treatments are available. With the right support—medical or psychological—most men can manage the condition and improve their sex life. Don’t hesitate to seek expert help.
How Is Delayed Ejaculation Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with discussing your symptoms and a physical exam.
Doctors may run blood or urine tests for infections or hormone levels if a chronic issue is suspected.
These help determine whether the cause is physical, psychological, or both.
Based on the findings, your doctor will recommend the most suitable treatment.
Noting symptoms, medications, and emotional or relationship concerns can help during your appointment.
Tips before you book an appointment
Prepare yourself for an appointment.
These are some things you may keep in mind before consulting with a doctor-
- Write down the symptoms you are dealing with.
- Add your personal information to it. For, e.g., if you have other problems like stress, recent life challenges, illness, or taking medications.
- Make a list of all medications that you are taking,
- Including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements.
- You can take your partner along if possible. Your partner may help in providing the information according to their vision. It will help diagnose and treat the problem by understanding its symptoms and causes.
- Also, write down questions that you want to ask your doctor.
What are the Treatments for Delayed Ejaculation?
The Treatment options depend on the cause of Delayed Ejaculation, which can vary.
Lifelong DE may be linked to congenital issues, and you should have it treated by a urologist.
Doctors may prescribe medications based on the root cause. Possible options include:
- Buspirone (Buspar): For anxiety
- Cyproheptadine (Periactin): An antihistamine
- Amantadine (Symmetrel): Used for Parkinson’s disease
These drugs are not approved for DE but may help address related issues.
Testosterone therapy may help if levels are low.
Avoiding alcohol and drugs can improve symptoms.
If psychological factors are causing DE, counselling or sex therapy, alone or with a partner, can be effective.
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Treatment for Delayed ejaculation depends on the cause and may include adjusting medications, sex therapy, or psychological counselling. Identifying and addressing underlying physical or emotional factors is key to improvement. Consult a doctor if you notice delayed ejaculation or other sexual problems.
There are no major health risks if you go too long without ejaculation. The body reabsorbs sperm naturally, and it does not pose any negative effect. Some may feel temporary scrotal discomfort ("blue balls") if aroused without release, but this isn't harmful.
Yes, it can be temporary and go away with time. It’s only a concern if it causes distress or affects your relationships. Addressing physical or psychological causes often resolves the issue.
Use behavioural methods like the stop-start technique, consider medications, and seek therapy if needed. Treatment depends on the cause, whether physical or psychological, and expert guidance is necessary.
Delayed ejaculation is not inherently good or bad. It becomes a concern if it causes frustration or relationship issues, in which case treatment may help.
Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic muscles and improve control over your ejaculation. Deep breathing techniques can also help reduce anxiety and delay ejaculation.