Premature ejaculation is defined by the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) as a condition in which a man ejaculates before or within about one minute of penetration, with the inability to delay ejaculation. It’s one of the most common sexual dysfunctions, affecting as many as 1 in 4 men, according to the Canadian Male Sexual Health Council.
For many men, PE can lead to feelings of anxiety and frustration, which may also affect their relationship with their partner. Premature ejaculation can occur in two forms: lifelong PE and acquired PE. Lifelong PE is a condition where ejaculation occurs too soon from the beginning of sexual activity, while acquired PE develops later in life, often due to performance anxiety or other psychological factors.