Considering the fact that many men worry about premature ejaculation (and at least 30% of men have experience with this issue), it may come as a surprise that there are some men with the opposite penis function problem - delayed ejaculation. Indeed, because many guys think that being able to have sex for an extended period of time is something to strive for, delayed ejaculation is often viewed as a "what are you complaining about, buddy?" situation. But it is a legitimate penis health issue, one that causes hardship for those who suffer from it.

Definition

Also called impaired or retarded ejaculation, delayed ejaculation occurs when it takes an extended period (usually defined as 30 minutes or more) of sustained sexual stimulation in order for a man to ejaculate. "Sustained" is key here; men who "edge" or stop-and-start the stimulation are delaying ejaculation on purpose and are controlling the delay. In actual delayed ejaculation, it is beyond the man’s control.

Sometimes, the issue occurs only when a man is in engaged in partner sex. When he masturbates, he is able to ejaculate during a typical time frame. Sometimes, the delay occurs both when masturbating and when partnering, while much more rarely, it occurs only when masturbating but not when having sex with a partner.

For some men, delayed ejaculation is a lifelong problem, while for others it is temporary. It is more often associated with men as they age, so a person may develop this issue as he gets older. It’s not uncommon for a man to experience this problem sporadically - every once in a while. It’s usually only when it is consistent that it is considered a problem.

Causes

There can be numerous factors contributing to delayed ejaculation, including;

- Stress. Stress in other parts of one’s life may affect one’s bedroom activities. But sometimes a man may stress about needing to be a better lover, and this may in turn lead to an inability to ejaculate without extreme effort. Depression can also be a key cause.

- Beliefs. Strong religious or moral beliefs may impact a man’s ability to ejaculate, especially if he is in a relationship which is in some way contrary to those beliefs.

- Medications. Certain drugs, such as some beta blockers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, diuretics and anti-seizure treatments, may create penis function complications.

- Penis issues. A urinary tract infection, damage to penile nerves or prostate surgery can have an impact.

- Medical conditions. Diabetes, neurological disorders and thyroid disorders can be possible culprits.

- Aging. As men get older, they often find that the penis simply doesn’t respond as it once did; more or more focused stimulation may be required to bring about the desired result.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the underlying causes. Switching medications, managing medical conditions and developing ways to deal with stress or depression can help. Working with a therapist to reconcile one’s actions with one’s beliefs may be needed.

Often, consulting a sex therapist may be useful. And if greater or different stimulation is required, involving one’s partner can be helpful so that strategies can be developed (e.g., use of lubricant, implementation of erotic games, greater reliance on stimulation by hand, etc.) that will address the man’s needs while including his partner.

As with any penis function issue, delayed ejaculation can more effectively be worked on if the penis is in good condition. Regular application of a superior penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) is encouraged. Look for a crème with two key ingredients, L-arginine and L-carnitine. L-arginine helps produce nitric oxide, which in turns keeps penile blood vessels healthy and in good operating condition. L-carnitine has neuroprotective properties, and this can help delay the decrease in penis sensation that can accompany lengthy sexual stimulation sessions.