Delayed ejaculation (DE) is the term used to describe a situation where it takes a prolonged period of time for a person to ejaculate during sex or ejaculation is not possible at all. Like all sexual problems, DE can be caused by physical or psychological reasons.
It is always helpful to visit your GP if you are experiencing a sexual function problem, to rule out physical causes. Common physical causes of delayed ejaculation include:
Delayed ejaculation treatment depends on the underlying cause, but it might include taking a medication or making changes to medications you currently take, or addressing alcohol or illegal drug use. Medications and substances that can cause DE include some antidepressants, certain high blood pressure medications, diuretics, antipsychotic medications, anti-seizure medications and alcohol.
Once you have the all clear from your GP that there are no physical causes for DE, then sex therapy is the next step. Psychological causes of DE include:
A professional sex therapist will complete a full assessment to identify the main psychological causes of your DE and will then support you, through a series of cognitive and behavioural processes, to increase your sexual pleasure and decrease your sexual inhibitions.
Remember, sex therapists are specialist trained counsellors and we talk about sex and sexual issues all day long. Don’t let embarrassment stop you from getting the help that you need and that works.
