Delayed Ejaculation
A sexual dysfunction involving marked delay in or infrequency or absence of ejaculation during partnered sexual activity.
Overview
Delayed ejaculation involves a marked delay in ejaculation or marked infrequency or absence of ejaculation during partnered sexual activity, occurring on almost all occasions for at least six months, causing significant distress.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include consistent difficulty ejaculating despite adequate stimulation and desire, along with associated distress or relationship strain. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes can include certain medications (particularly some antidepressants), psychological factors, and underlying medical conditions.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Sex therapy addressing psychological and relational contributors may help improve symptoms.
Medication
Reviewing and, if appropriate, adjusting contributing medications with a prescribing provider is an important step in evaluation. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Delayed Ejaculation
Open communication with a partner and reviewing medication side effects with a healthcare provider can help identify contributing causes.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Outcomes vary depending on the underlying cause; many individuals improve once contributing factors are addressed.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.