Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for premature ejaculation to help you regain confidence and intimacy with our Spital Clinic male health experts.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Premature ejaculation is a common sexual health condition where a man ejaculates sooner than he or his partner would like during sexual activity. It can happen before or shortly after penetration, often with minimal stimulation. While it's one of the most frequently reported male sexual concerns, many men feel reluctant to seek help. The good news is that premature ejaculation is highly treatable, and understanding the condition is the first step towards finding an effective solution.
There are two main types of premature ejaculation: lifelong (primary), which begins from the first sexual experience, and acquired (secondary), which develops after a period of normal sexual function. It can be caused by a range of factors including psychological issues such as anxiety, stress or relationship difficulties, as well as physical causes like hormonal imbalances or heightened penile sensitivity. If premature ejaculation is affecting your quality of life or relationships, speaking with a male health specialist can help identify the underlying cause and provide a personalised treatment plan.
Diagnosing premature ejaculation typically begins with a confidential consultation with a male health specialist. During this appointment, your doctor will discuss your sexual history, how often the problem occurs, and how long it has been affecting you. You may be asked about the time it takes to ejaculate, the level of control you feel, and whether the issue is causing distress for you or your partner. While these conversations can feel uncomfortable, they are essential for understanding the nature and severity of your condition.
In some cases, your doctor may carry out further assessments to rule out any underlying physical causes. This can include blood tests to check hormone levels, thyroid function or other health markers that may be contributing to the problem. A physical examination may also be recommended to assess penile sensitivity or identify any related conditions such as erectile dysfunction or prostatitis. Once a thorough evaluation has been completed, your specialist will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of premature ejaculation.
Premature ejaculation can have a profound impact on many areas of your daily life, extending far beyond the bedroom. Men who experience this condition often report a significant drop in self-esteem and confidence, which can affect how they feel about themselves in both personal and professional settings. The anxiety surrounding sexual performance can become all-consuming, leading to stress, low mood and in some cases, symptoms of depression. Many men begin to avoid intimate situations altogether, which can create a cycle of isolation and worsening emotional wellbeing.
The effects of premature ejaculation can also place considerable strain on romantic relationships. Partners may feel confused, rejected or dissatisfied, which can lead to misunderstandings, resentment and a breakdown in communication. Over time, this can erode the emotional closeness and trust that healthy relationships depend on. For couples trying to conceive, premature ejaculation can add an additional layer of frustration and pressure. The important thing to remember is that premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition. Seeking support from a male health specialist can help you regain control, restore your confidence and improve both your intimate relationships and overall quality of life.
During a premature ejaculation consultation, our men's health doctor will create a comfortable and confidential environment where you can openly discuss your concerns. The appointment typically begins with a detailed conversation about your sexual history, lifestyle and any emotional or psychological factors that may be contributing to the condition. Your specialist will ask about the frequency and duration of the problem, the level of distress it causes, and whether there are any related issues such as erectile dysfunction or anxiety. This thorough assessment allows your doctor to build a clear picture of your situation and identify the most likely underlying causes.
Based on the findings of your consultation, your doctor will recommend a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include behavioural techniques such as the stop-start or squeeze method, which can help you develop greater control over ejaculation. In some cases, medication such as topical anaesthetics or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help delay ejaculation. Your doctor may also suggest psychological support or couples counselling if stress, anxiety or relationship difficulties are playing a role. Follow-up appointments are often recommended to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed, ensuring you receive the ongoing support required to achieve lasting improvement.
We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.
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Premature ejaculation is the most common male sexual dysfunction, affecting an estimated one in three men at some point in their lives. It can occur at any age and is not limited to any particular background or lifestyle. Despite how widespread it is, many men feel too embarrassed to seek help, meaning the true number of those affected is likely much higher.
The important thing to understand is that premature ejaculation is a recognised medical condition, not a personal failing. It is highly treatable, and with the right support from a qualified male health specialist, most men see significant improvement. If it is something you are experiencing, you are far from alone, and help is readily available.
Premature ejaculation can be caused by a combination of physical and psychological factors. Physical causes may include heightened penile sensitivity, hormonal imbalances, thyroid problems or inflammation of the prostate. Psychological contributors often include performance anxiety, stress, depression or unresolved relationship issues.
In some cases, premature ejaculation may also be linked to other sexual health conditions such as erectile dysfunction, where the anxiety around maintaining an erection can lead to a pattern of rushing to ejaculate. Identifying the root cause is key to effective treatment, which is why a thorough consultation with a male health specialist is always recommended.
In many cases, premature ejaculation can be effectively managed and significantly improved with the right treatment plan. For some men, particularly those with acquired premature ejaculation triggered by psychological factors, the condition can be fully resolved. For others, especially those with lifelong premature ejaculation, long-term management strategies can dramatically improve control and satisfaction.
Treatment success depends on identifying the underlying cause and following a tailored approach. Behavioural techniques, medication and psychological support have all been shown to produce excellent results. Working closely with a male health specialist ensures you receive ongoing guidance and adjustments to your treatment plan for the best possible outcome.
You should consider seeing a doctor if premature ejaculation is happening regularly and causing distress for you or your partner. If it is affecting your confidence, your relationships or your overall quality of life, it is worth seeking professional advice sooner rather than later. There is no minimum threshold of severity required to book an appointment — if it is bothering you, that is reason enough.
Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and help break the cycle of anxiety and avoidance that often develops over time. A male health specialist can provide a confidential, non-judgemental assessment and guide you towards an effective treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
There are several effective treatments for premature ejaculation, and the best approach will depend on the underlying cause. Behavioural techniques such as the stop-start method and the squeeze technique are often recommended as a first step, helping men develop greater control over ejaculation through practice and awareness. Pelvic floor exercises have also shown promising results in improving ejaculatory control.
For cases that require additional support, medication may be prescribed. Topical anaesthetic creams or sprays can reduce penile sensitivity, while selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) taken either daily or on demand have been shown to significantly delay ejaculation. In some cases, psychological therapy or couples counselling may also be recommended, particularly where anxiety, stress or relationship difficulties are contributing factors.
Yes, anxiety is one of the most common psychological causes of premature ejaculation. Performance anxiety in particular can create a heightened state of arousal and nervous tension that makes it difficult to control ejaculation. This can quickly become a self-reinforcing cycle, where the fear of ejaculating too soon actually increases the likelihood of it happening.
Beyond sexual performance anxiety, general stress, work pressure, financial worries and relationship problems can all contribute to premature ejaculation. Addressing the psychological component is often a crucial part of treatment. Techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness and relaxation strategies can be highly effective in reducing anxiety and helping men regain control.
In most cases, premature ejaculation is not a sign of a serious underlying health problem. However, it can occasionally be associated with other medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, prostatitis, hormonal imbalances or neurological issues. It may also be linked to erectile dysfunction, where the two conditions can influence and worsen each other.
This is why a thorough medical assessment is always recommended. A male health specialist can carry out the necessary tests to rule out any underlying conditions and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment. Even if no additional health concerns are identified, getting a proper diagnosis provides peace of mind and a clear pathway towards effective management of the condition.
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.