Effective, Evidence-Based Treatment — Medical, Behavioral & Combination Approaches
Premature ejaculation (PE) is when a man ejaculates sooner than he or his partner would like during sex — consistently and with little control. It is the most common male sexual complaint, affecting up to 1 in 3 men.
There is no universal definition of "too soon" — it is defined by whether it causes distress or relationship difficulty. Most definitions focus on ejaculation occurring within about one minute of penetration and the inability to delay it.
PE can be lifelong (present since first sexual experience) or acquired (developed after a period of normal function). It can occur with all partners or only in certain situations. Understanding which type you have helps determine the best treatment approach.
You are not alone: PE is extremely common and highly treatable. Most men suffer in silence or feel embarrassed to discuss it — but effective solutions exist, and a single consultation can change everything.
PE has both psychological and biological components. In most men it is a combination of both — which is why the most effective treatments often combine medical and behavioral approaches.
Performance anxiety is one of the most common triggers for PE — especially in younger men or those with a new partner. The worry about ejaculating too quickly can actually make it happen faster, creating a cycle.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a direct role in ejaculation control. Men with PE often have lower serotonin activity in the areas of the brain that regulate ejaculation — which is why SSRIs are effective treatments.
Men who struggle to maintain an erection often rush to ejaculate before losing it — creating a habit of rapid ejaculation. Treating the underlying ED often significantly improves PE as well.
Stress, relationship conflict, guilt, or a history of sexual trauma can all contribute to PE. In these cases, a combined approach with behavioral therapy produces the best outcomes.
Dr. Kashani offers a comprehensive, individualized approach — combining the treatments most likely to work for your specific situation. Most men see significant improvement within weeks of starting treatment.
Topical creams, sprays, or gels containing lidocaine or prilocaine are applied to the penis before sex to reduce sensitivity and delay ejaculation. They are easy to use, work quickly, and have minimal systemic side effects. They can be used as needed without daily medication.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most effective pharmacological treatment for PE. They increase serotonin activity, which delays ejaculation. They can be taken daily for continuous effect, or as-needed a few hours before sex (off-label use). Dapoxetine is specifically designed for on-demand PE treatment.
The stop-start technique and the squeeze technique are well-established behavioral methods that help men build ejaculatory control over time. These exercises can be practiced alone or with a partner and often produce lasting improvements in control without medication.
Research consistently shows that combining medical treatment (topical agents or SSRIs) with behavioral techniques produces better and more lasting results than either approach alone. Dr. Kashani designs personalized combination protocols tailored to each patient's specific situation, severity, and preferences.
Studies show the average time from penetration to ejaculation is about 5 to 7 minutes. PE is generally defined as consistently ejaculating within 1 to 2 minutes of penetration with minimal control. However, what matters most is whether it causes you or your partner distress — not the exact number of minutes.
Many men achieve long-lasting improvement or complete resolution — especially with combination therapy. Lifelong PE (present since first sexual experience) is often best managed with ongoing medication. Acquired PE (developed later in life) is more likely to fully resolve once the underlying trigger is addressed.
Some topical agents can transfer to a partner's skin and cause temporary numbness. Using a condom after applying the agent eliminates this concern. Dr. Kashani will recommend the right product and application technique to minimize any impact on your partner.
SSRIs are safe and well-tolerated by most men when used at the low doses prescribed for PE. Side effects at these doses are generally mild. As-needed use of short-acting agents like dapoxetine avoids most of the side effects associated with daily SSRI use.
Not necessarily. Acquired PE can improve with age as men become more comfortable and confident. However, if ED develops — which is more common with age — it can sometimes make PE worse. Dr. Kashani evaluates both conditions together.
Premature ejaculation is a medical condition that deserves proper evaluation — not a quick prescription. Dr. Kashani takes time to understand your specific situation and designs a treatment plan that addresses the root cause, not just the symptom.
Premature ejaculation is treatable. Dr. Kashani offers discreet, expert consultations at two Long Island locations.
Mount Sinai Doctors
2 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 102