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A delayed or absent ejaculation happens when a man takes an especially long time to ejaculate or can't come at all.
It can be a short-lived or lifelong problem.
The causes of delayed ejaculation (DE) vary but may be due to:
Treatment depends on the cause of the problem and how long it's been going on.
Physical causes of DE include:
Mental causes include:
DE tends to get worse with age.
Other risk factors include:
DE isn't a life-threatening condition. And by itself, it doesn't lead to any serious illness.
But it can add stress to your relationship and lower your self-esteem. It may also affect a couple's ability to conceive.
It's normal to have delayed ejaculation (DE) from time to time, just like it's normal to have erectile dysfunction during your lifetime.
DE is only a problem when it goes on for a long time or causes stress for you or your partner.
Though what's “normal” in sexual behavior ranges, most men climax within a few minutes during intercourse.
Men with DE often need 30 minutes or more of sexual stimulation to have an orgasm. Some can only come when masturbating.
There's no simple test for DE. If it causes distress or physical discomfort to you or your partner, you should see your doctor.
Your doctor will listen to your symptoms and do an exam. He or she may also order blood and urine tests to rule out issues like infections and hormone imbalances.
Physical causes of DE include:
Mental causes include:
The most common methods for treating delayed ejaculation are:
Treatment for delayed ejaculation (DE) depends on what caused the problem. Once doctors find the cause, they're often able to resolve the issue.
If you're taking medication that might be causing delayed ejaculation, reducing or adjusting the dose, or switching medications might fix the problem.
Adding a medication might help. Some drugs for other diseases — such as Parkinson's — have helped men with DE.
Your doctor might help you find a treatment program if your DE stems from drug or alcohol use.
Your doctor might suggest counseling if depression or other mental health issues are the root cause. Your doctor might also refer a sex therapist. Either going alone or with your partner can also help if sexual dysfunction is the cause.
Your doctor might suggest surgery to treat delayed ejaculation.
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