How to Last Longer in Bed

For many men, how long the last in bed can be a concern, especially in cases where premature ejaculation is a common occurrence. However, worrying about this potential problem can actually increase the likelihood of it occurring and a distorted sense of what constitutes 'premature' can often lead to undue anxiety. How long a man is able to sustain an erection before climaxing varies, but on average intercourse lasts between five to ten minutes.

If you are suffering from premature ejaculation, or would simply like to learn how to last longer, there are techniques and treatments available to help you. There are many practical solutions to suit your individual needs, including sexual therapy, gels and prescription medications.

Anaesthetic solutions

These are often the best option for men suffering from more mild cases of premature ejaculation. You can either apply an anaesthetic gel directly to the shaft of your penis before sex, or use special condoms which actually contain the anaesthetic.

Both the gel and the condom have the effect of desensitising the penis to make you last longer in bed. They both contain a small risk of irritation or allergic reaction to the anaesthetic, and some men report that, though they do last longer, the desensitisation makes the sex less pleasurable.

Therapy and techniques

Premature ejaculation can be caused by underlying psychological difficulties, such as problems within a relationship or emotional issues. Sexual therapy offers a platform for you to discuss these possibilities with a trained counsellor. You can also undertake sex therapy as a couple. Therapy may be particularly beneficial as a long-term treatment.

There are also self-help techniques designed to delay your ejaculation and teach you how to last longer, although they can take time:

Master's Johnson Technique

The Masters-Johnson method is something that both partners can take part in. It involves gripping the penis in a particular method just before climax, to reduce the urge. Just as a man feels ready to climax his partner should place an index finger and middle finger directly on the ridge of the penis head while the thumb reaches around to help squeeze lightly.

If this is practiced regularly, many men report an increased ability to control their erections. Two US sexologists originally developed it after years of observing sexual practices and sexuality.

Stop-start method

This is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy that requires you to stop sexual stimulation as you are almost at the point of ejaculation. As soon as the urge to ejaculate has subsided, you can continue stimulation. With time this may be able to help you delay ejaculation without having to stop stimulation.

Squeeze technique

This is a variation of the Masters-Johnson technique and it can be used during sex if you feel you are about to climax too early. If you squeeze below the head of your penis firmly but lightly, focusing pressure on the urethra, the blood will be pushed out of the penis, meaning the ejaculatory response will be momentarily repressed.

Prescription treatments

Prescription medication is a popular alternative for men who have found limited success with behavioural techniques, or who would rather not to undergo therapy. Priligy is the only prescription medication available that is designed specifically as a treatment for premature ejaculation. If taken prior to intercourse, Priligy can enhance your performance and help you to last longer in bed. It mainly works to influence serotonin levels to enhance the communication between nerve cells, thus allowing more control over the ejaculation reflex.

Anaesthetic solutions

Therapy and techniques

Prescription treatments