Premature ejaculation occurs when a man ejaculates before he is ready, usually after minimal stimulation or shortly after sexual penetration. This condition is a common form of sexual dysfunction that affects up to 40% of American men. If premature ejaculation happens only occasionally, it’s not cause for concern. However, frequent cases of premature ejaculation before you and your partner are ready could indicate a problem.

This condition can result in an unsatisfactory sexual experience for both partners. In fact, premature ejaculation is associated with infrequent sex and performance anxiety. The problem can be embarrassing, but avoiding the issue won’t make it go away. Fortunately, premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition.

Medications, psychological counseling, and other techniques can treat premature ejaculation and help you attain a healthy and satisfying sex life. For many men, a combination of all these treatments is an effective option. If you’re having problems with frequent premature ejaculation, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss possible treatments.