Premature ejaculation occurs when you ejaculate during sexual intercourse sooner than you or your partner would like or before you’ve achieved satisfaction. It often occurs early in relationships when sexual excitement, anxiety, and overstimulation are common.

If you are wondering how to not ejaculate prematurely, you’re not alone. There are a number of things you can try to delay ejaculation, including the “stop-and-start” method, the “squeeze” technique, and more.1

 What Is Premature Ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation is identified using the following criteria:

• Ejaculation occurs within one minute of penetration.
• Ejaculation cannot be controlled or delayed in all or most cases over a period of at least six months.2
• It causes frustration, distress, and a tendency to avoid sexual interaction.

Premature Ejaculation Causes

You’re more likely to experience premature ejaculation when you’re young and still learning about sexual activity and relationships, or at any age if you’ve had a long period of abstinence. However, various psychological and physical factors may also play a role.

Psychological factors that can contribute to premature ejaculation include:

• Depression
• Stress
• Relationship problems
• Performance anxiety
• Early sexual experiences