Increasing Stimulation Techniques for Delayed Ejaculation
For men with delayed ejaculation, increasing stimulation techniques should be the first-line approach to enhance arousal and reduce ejaculatory latency. 1, 2
Understanding Delayed Ejaculation
Delayed ejaculation (DE) is defined as a consistent, bothersome inability to achieve ejaculation or excessive latency despite adequate sexual stimulation and the desire to ejaculate 1. This condition affects approximately 1-4% of men and can significantly impact sexual satisfaction, quality of life, and fertility 3.
Effective Stimulation Techniques
1. Enhanced Physical Stimulation
- Modify sexual positions to increase penile stimulation and sensation 2
- Increase intensity and duration of stimulation during foreplay and intercourse 1
- Focus on highly sensitive areas of the penis, particularly the frenulum and glans
- Experiment with different types of touch (pressure, speed, friction) to identify what provides maximum arousal
2. Vibratory Stimulation
- Use of vibrating devices on the penis, particularly effective for neurological causes of DE 2
- Penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) can be used as an adjunct treatment, especially for men with decreased penile sensitivity 4
- Start with low intensity and gradually increase as needed
3. Psychological Enhancement Techniques
- Fantasy utilization - encouraging mental focus on arousing thoughts during sexual activity
- Mindfulness practice - remaining present and focused on physical sensations
- Reducing performance anxiety through relaxation techniques before and during sexual activity
- Improving communication about sexual needs and preferences between partners 2
4. Sensory Focus Exercises
- Systematic desensitization to reduce anxiety associated with sexual performance
- Gradual exposure to increasingly stimulating sexual scenarios
- Partner involvement in stimulation techniques, which may improve outcomes 2
Practical Implementation
- Start with non-genital stimulation and gradually progress to genital stimulation
- Experiment with lubricants that enhance sensation (warming or tingling varieties)
- Consider proper condom sizing - using a condom that's too small can reduce sensation and contribute to DE 5
- Combine techniques - behavioral approaches work better when combined with other treatments 1
- Practice regularly - consistent application of these techniques improves outcomes
Important Considerations
- Rule out medical causes before focusing solely on stimulation techniques, including medication side effects, hormonal imbalances, or neurological conditions 2
- Age is a significant factor in DE, with older men typically requiring more stimulation to achieve ejaculation 1
- Avoid surgical interventions as they should be considered experimental and may lead to permanent loss of penile sensation 1
- Consider referral to a sexual health specialist if stimulation techniques alone are insufficient 2
- Partner participation in therapy may be necessary for optimal results 3
Pharmacological Adjuncts to Consider
If stimulation techniques alone are insufficient, medications that may enhance ejaculatory response include:
- Pseudoephedrine (60-120 mg, 120-150 minutes before sex)
- Midodrine (5-40 mg, 30-120 minutes before sex)
- Oxytocin (24 IU intranasal/sublingual during sexual activity) 2
These medications should be considered secondary to stimulation techniques and used under medical supervision.