The Connection Between Anxiety & Premature Ejaculation

Anxiety can affect anybody and everybody. One sensitive aspect of our lives that anxiety can affect is our sexual health and performance, particularly premature ejaculation. If you suffer from premature ejaculation, you are not alone in this, and it is not a hopeless situation.

In this article, we will look deeper into the connection between anxiety and premature ejaculation, as well as some coping strategies that you can observe to prevent it from happening.

Anxiety and how it can potentially impact your sexual performance

There are four types of premature ejaculation: premature-like, normal variant, acquired, and lifelong ejaculatory dysfunction. Each classification has different signs and treatment methods. All in all, premature ejaculation is a common sexual dysfunction that can affect up to 40 per cent of men at some point in their life.

Although the definition of premature ejaculation can vary, depending on the specific type, it is generally defined as ejaculation occurring sooner than desired (5 to 7 minutes), either shortly after penetration or before. For example, if it is less than a minute after penetration, it is considered a lifelong ejaculatory dysfunction—less than three minutes – acquired ejaculatory function.

Studies have revealed significant links between psychological factors and specific types of premature ejaculation. For example, acquired premature ejaculation was found to be intimately connected with performance anxiety. The same study also revealed that both acquired and lifelong premature ejaculation are connected with marital disharmony.

It is perfectly normal to display levels of anxiousness before or during sexual intercourse, especially if you are having sex for the first time or in a long while. While the connection between anxiety and premature ejaculation still requires further studies, it can be safely stated that anxiety and premature ejaculation are a two-way relationship; anxiety may lead to premature ejaculation, which, in turn, leads to further anxiety. Overall, it does have a debilitating effect on overall quality of life and sexual health.

Understanding the link between sexual health and anxiety

Understanding the relationship between the two is fundamental to helping you overcome the issue. Anxiety is not only responsible for the development and persistence of premature ejaculation but also a possible accelerator of the dysfunction. As mentioned earlier, anxiety and premature ejaculation is a two-way relationship.

An interesting result of pathophysiological studies of lifelong premature ejaculation stated that men who developed acquired premature ejaculation later in life tend also to showcase increased levels of anxiety during sexual intercourse. This result is a huge contrast from men with lifelong premature ejaculation who have “gotten used” to their condition.

Another vital link between sexual health and anxiety is its impact on the relationship. Premature ejaculation holds a huge psychological toll on relationship harmony. A study revealed an alarming statistic – 8 out of 10 couples with premature ejaculation issues display increased levels of relationship discord.

Hence, addressing the issue of anxiety appears to be a key aspect of coping with sexual dysfunctions, especially if you are dealing with premature ejaculation. Prioritising your mental well-being is a great way to improve not only your physical well-being but also your sexual well-being.

Effective strategies to cope with premature ejaculation and anxiety

Firstly, have honest and transparent communication with your partner. Sexual intercourse goes beyond physical satisfaction; it can be mentally stimulating, too! Communication helps to facilitate empathy and understanding, reducing any unnecessary stress and anxiety that contribute to premature ejaculation.

You can also increase your foreplay to enhance your sexual comfort substantially, easing any performance anxiety. If your premature ejaculation is a result of a relationship, emotional, or psychological trouble, you and your partner can benefit from a visit to a sex therapist, couples therapist, psychiatrist, or psychologist.

Secondly, you may consider using specific medication. For example, if you have lifelong premature ejaculation, you can delay ejaculation by taking serotonin inhibitors. Anaesthetic sprays and creams that can be applied to the shaft and head of your penis are also another method to delay ejaculation. They are typically applied at least 10 to 30 minutes before sexual intercourse to reduce your sensitivity. However, it is vital to remember to wash your penis before having sex to prevent transference of the numbing sensation to your partner’s vagina.

Lastly, is modifying your lifestyle or practising certain delaying methods. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine, ensuring sufficient rest, maintaining a well-balanced diet, and exercising regularly are lifestyle changes that can improve your overall sexual performance and stamina. You can also practise delay techniques during sexual intercourse. Some of the techniques include:

  • Distracted thinking: The idea is to focus your attention on non-sexual thoughts while you are being sexually stimulated. For example, naming every country from A to Z or counting from 1 to 100 can help you drive your attention away from ejaculating too quickly.
  • Squeeze technique: Firstly, you need to be stimulated close to the point of orgasm. Then, you or your partner gently squeeze the head of the penis for at least 30 seconds or till you lose your erection. Repeat these two steps a couple of times before you allow yourself to ejaculate.
  • Start and stop technique: This technique is similar to the squeeze technique in the sense that you or your partner stimulates your penis close to the point of orgasm, then stops touching you completely for at least 30 seconds or until you regain control of your bodily response. Repeat these two steps a couple of times before you allow yourself to ejaculate.

Conclusion

Understanding the connection between anxiety and premature ejaculation can be a vexing affair to go through alone. However, do not let your worries and anxiety stop you from seeking professional help. In fact, we highly encourage all men to conduct regular sexual assessments.

Elyon Clinic is one of the best men’s health and low testosterone clinics in Singapore. We have provided countless men with the treatment, support, and guidance necessary to overcome issues such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. Book a consultation with us to take the next step towards boosting your sexual health today!