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Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual dysfunction concern. Researchers believe that up to 75% of men may experience PE at some point in their lives, often causing feelings of frustration, embarrassment, and dissatisfaction. (Crowdis, 2023)
PE not only impacts an individual's self-esteem but can also cause relationship strain and unsatisfactory sex for all partners involved. The exact definition of PE can vary, but many providers agree that ejaculation occurring within a minute of beginning intercourse can be diagnosed as PE. (Cleveland Clinic, 2023)
There are many factors that can contribute to sexual dysfunction, from psychological factors to chronic disease. Understanding and targeting the root cause of your PE may help you have more satisfactory sex.
Wondering how long sex should last? Hear our take >
The Connection Between Premature Ejaculation and Underlying Health Conditions
Physical health conditions, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors can all influence sexual function. Identifying the cause can help you take control of your health and improve both sexual performance and confidence. Here are some common underlying conditions that could be contributing to premature ejaculation.
1. Psychological Factors
Mental health conditions and psychological factors are one of the most common causes of PE. Our thoughts, behaviors, and well-being all play a huge role in our sexual health. If you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or have another diagnosed mental illness, you are more likely to experience premature ejaculation. (Crowdis, 2023)
Many of these conditions can lead to a cycle of negative thinking and poor sexual performance. If you believe this applies to you, it may be beneficial to consider counseling with a psychologist, psychiatrist or sex therapist. Targeting the underlying condition or thought pattern that is contributing to your PE is the most effective way to see results. (Cleveland Clinic, 2023)
2. Abnormal Hormone Levels
Hormones such as testosterone, serotonin, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone are all vital for sexual response and ejaculation timing. (Crowdis, 2023) If any of these hormone levels are too low or too high, conditions such as premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction can occur. A sex hormone assessment can help measure your hormones and pinpoint if you have abnormal levels.
Common conditions relating to abnormal hormone levels include:
Hypogonadism
Insomnia
Certain cancers
Endocrine disorders
Diabetes
3. Prostate Health
Inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis) and other prostate-related conditions can lead to heightened sensitivity and reduced control over ejaculation. If your prostate is not functioning properly, it can cause discomfort, urinary urgency, and quicker ejaculation. (Kim, 2011) A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test can help assess prostate health and rule out potential concerns.
4. Thyroid Health
The thyroid gland regulates energy levels, metabolism, and hormone production—factors that all play a role in sexual function. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) have been linked to ejaculation issues. Hypothyroidism is specifically tied to delayed ejaculation, while hyperthyroidism is more likely to result in premature ejaculation. (Gabrielson, 2018) A thyroid function test can check whether or not you have an imbalance that could be contributing to your PE.
5. Diabetes
Diabetes, specifically uncontrolled or unmanaged diabetes, can lead to damaged blood vessels, nerves, and various organs. (Mostafa, 2021) This can lead to hypersensitivity or reduced control over ejaculation. Blood sugar fluctuations also impact energy levels and hormone balance, making it harder to maintain sexual stamina. A hemoglobin A1C test can check for diabetes or prediabetes, should you be concerned about your blood sugar levels.
6. Substance Abuse
Substance abuse, such as excessive alcohol consumption or recreational drug use, can interfere with the nervous system and alter neurotransmitter levels, making it difficult to control ejaculation. (Mohammed, 2020) Certain medications, including antidepressants and stimulants, may also contribute to sexual dysfunction.
You should always report honestly to your provider about any substances you are using and how much alcohol you are consuming. If you need assistance managing your substance use, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service.
Learn about what underlying conditions can lead to premature ejaculation.
Preventing and Treating Premature Ejaculation
Identifying the underlying cause of PE is the first step toward finding a lasting solution. By getting a clearer picture of your overall health, you can make informed decisions about treatment options, lifestyle changes, and potential medical interventions.
Fortunately, there are options available for treating and preventing PE. The first line of treatment for most is some sort of therapy or counseling to target any emotional concerns, sexual performance anxiety, or other stressors.
Another option is behavioral modification therapy, which involves trying different methods to delay orgasm. Some examples include (Cleveland Clinic, 2023) :
Start and stop technique: Stimulating the penis close to the point of orgasm, then stopping the stimulation for about 30 seconds until you regain control of your response.
Squeeze technique: Stimulating the penis close to the point of orgasm, then gently squeezing the head of the penis for about 30 seconds to lose the erection.
Distracted thinking: Focusing on non-sexual things during sexual activity.
The goal with these techniques is to eventually gain better control over delaying an orgasm.
Another option for treating PE is using medication. In some cases, providers may recommend SSRIs, medications typically used for depression that have been known to delay orgasm. (Mayo Clinic, 2022) There are also numbing creams and sprays that can be used to decrease sensitivity. (Cleveland Clinic, 2023)
Take Charge of Your Sexual Health
PE can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Understanding the root cause can help you take proactive steps toward better control, improved confidence, and a better sex life.
Rugiet offers a range of medications proven to improve arousal, stamina, and erections. Explore Go Long for a PE medication consisting of SSRI and PDE5 ingredients, Rugiet Ready for a 3-in-1 ED sublingual that targets brain and body, or Boost, a cinnamon chewable that helps you maintain long-lasting erections.
At Rugiet, we believe that sexual health is an important part of overall wellness. That’s why we’re not just offering ED medications—we’re also introducing comprehensive diagnostic testing to give you better insight into your overall health.
Have questions or concerns about your health? Reach out to a qualified provider today.
Citations:
Crowdis M, Leslie SW, Nazir S. Premature Ejaculation. [Updated 2023 May 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546701/
Premature Ejaculation. Cleveland Clinic. 09/27/2023 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15627-premature-ejaculation
Kim S. W. (2011). Prostatic disease and sexual dysfunction. Korean journal of urology, 52(6), 373–378. https://doi.org/10.4111/kju.2011.52.6.373
Gabrielson, A. T., Sartor, R. A., & Hellstrom, W. J. G. (2019). The Impact of Thyroid Disease on Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women. Sexual medicine reviews, 7(1), 57–70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sxmr.2018.05.002
Mostafa, T., & Abdel-Hamid, I. A. (2021). Ejaculatory dysfunction in men with diabetes mellitus. World journal of diabetes, 12(7), 954–974. https://doi.org/10.4239/wjd.v12.i7.954
Mohammed, S. A., Abdelhamed, A., & El Sayed, R. M. (2020). Evaluation of Drug Abuse in Patients With Lifelong Premature Ejaculation: A Cross-Sectional Study. Sexual medicine, 8(4), 608–614. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2020.08.008
Mayo Clinic. Premature ejaculation. July 14, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premature-ejaculation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354905
