Premature ejaculation (PE) is a more common concern than you might think. It’s estimated that one in five men experience it. PE can hurt your self-esteem and put strain on your relationships. Even though it’s common, less than a quarter of those who experience PE seek medical advice.
If you’re looking for ways to increase the amount of time you last during sex, you might have heard of delay creams for men. Delay creams reduce sensitivity, which helps you last longer before ejaculating.
This article isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you have PE, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor. However, if you’re looking for other ways to last longer, this article looks at various delay products that are available. It also discusses lifestyle changes you can make and the importance of communicating openly with your partner.
Understanding Premature Ejaculation (PE)
Before we dive into delay creams, let’s talk about why they exist in the first place: premature ejaculation, or PE.
Definition and Symptoms of PE
So, what exactly is PE? According to Annabelle Knight, Lovehoney’s resident sex and relationships expert, “Premature ejaculation is when a penis-owner ejaculates sooner than wanted during sex. It is also known as rapid ejaculation, premature climax or early ejaculation.”
It’s important to distinguish between the occasional quick finish and chronic PE. Everyone has those times when things wrap up faster than expected, and that’s usually nothing to worry about. However, chronic PE is a consistent pattern of ejaculating sooner than desired, and it can lead to a lot of frustration and even relationship problems.
Causes of PE
What causes PE? Well, it can be a combination of things. Sometimes there are underlying physical issues at play (which is why it’s always a good idea to see a doctor). But often, PE is linked to psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or even relationship issues.
That’s why it’s so important to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing PE. They can help rule out any medical causes and point you in the right direction for treatment and support.
How Delay Creams Work
Delay creams work by decreasing sensitivity to the penis. They typically contain a desensitizing agent like lidocaine or benzocaine. These ingredients work by numbing the nerve endings in your penis, which reduces sensation and delays ejaculation.
If you’re considering a delay cream, it’s important to use it correctly. Here’s the general idea:
- Apply a small amount of the cream to the head (glans) and shaft of the penis.
- Do this about 10-15 minutes before you plan to have sex.
- Follow the specific instructions that come with the product and don’t use too much.
Types of Delay Products: Creams and Alternatives
If you’re considering a delay product, it’s helpful to know what’s out there. Let’s take a look at creams and other options to help you find the best fit.
Delay Creams
Delay creams are probably the most well-known type of product, and they have both advantages and disadvantages.
On the plus side, they’re generally easy to use and work pretty quickly, potentially improving your sexual performance. However, there are a few potential downsides. Some people find that they reduce sensation too much, and the cream can transfer to your partner. Plus, let’s be honest, they can sometimes be a little messy.
Most delay creams contain topical anesthetics like lidocaine or benzocaine to temporarily numb the penis and reduce sensitivity.
Delay Sprays
Delay sprays work in a similar way to creams, desensitizing the penis to help you last longer. The main difference lies in the application and texture. Sprays can be more convenient to apply, but creams might give you better, more targeted coverage.
Other Delay Products
Creams and sprays aren’t your only choices! There are a few other products you might want to consider.
- Delay condoms: These condoms have a numbing agent inside the tip to reduce sensitivity.
- Delay wipes: These wipes offer a discreet and convenient way to apply a desensitizing agent.
- Delay gels: These gels provide lubrication along with desensitization.
Beyond products, you might also look into climax control programs. These programs offer structured exercises and techniques designed to help you improve your ejaculatory control over time. They often involve working with a therapist or counselor to address underlying issues that may be contributing to premature ejaculation.
Lifestyle Modifications for Managing PE
Along with creams and sprays, you may want to try delay wipes, and simple lifestyle changes to help manage premature ejaculation.
Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and improve your ability to control ejaculation.
“Kegel exercises can strengthen the muscles around the penis,” explains Dr. Brightman. “By contracting the pelvic floor muscles on a regular basis, your strength in that area will improve and in turn, you can gain better control of your ejaculatory reflex.”
Here’s how to do Kegel exercises correctly:
- First, find your pelvic floor muscles. A good way to do this is to stop urinating midstream.
- Once you’ve identified the right muscles, contract them for a few seconds, then relax.
- Repeat this exercise several times a day.
The Stop-Start Technique
The stop-start technique is another method that may help you delay ejaculation. This involves stimulating the penis until you feel like you’re about to ejaculate, then stopping stimulation until the urge subsides.
Repeat this process several times before allowing yourself to ejaculate.
Communication and Intimacy
Open communication with your partner is also key. Talk about your sexual needs and any concerns you have. Discuss how long you’d like sex to last, what you both prefer, and any anxieties you might have.
You can also explore other ways to be intimate besides intercourse. Focus on foreplay, cuddling, and other forms of physical affection. Sex doesn’t always have to mean intercourse.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Like any medication, delay creams can come with side effects. Some users experience reduced sensation, temporary numbness, skin irritation, or even allergic reactions.
It’s super important to follow the product instructions exactly. Using too much cream can lead to excessive numbness, making it difficult to achieve orgasm (defeating the purpose, right?).
If you experience persistent or worsening side effects, you should definitely consult a doctor. Don’t just tough it out!
Also, be aware that the cream can transfer to your partner. Using a condom can prevent this, so it’s something to consider.
Psychological Factors and When to Get Help
It’s important to remember that premature ejaculation (PE) isn’t always a physical problem. Anxiety, stress, depression, and even problems in your relationship can all play a role.
Talking to a therapist can be incredibly helpful. They can help you figure out if there are underlying emotional issues that are contributing to the problem. Sometimes, just understanding what’s going on can make a big difference.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, it’s definitely worth seeking professional help. A therapist or counselor can offer guidance and support in managing PE and help you develop strategies for a more fulfilling sex life. Don’t hesitate to reach out – it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do climax delay wipes work?
Climax delay wipes, which typically contain a mild anesthetic like benzocaine, can be effective for some men in temporarily reducing sensitivity and delaying ejaculation. However, results vary depending on the individual and the specific product. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and be aware of potential side effects like temporary numbness.
Does delay spray affect the woman?
Delay sprays can potentially affect the woman if the product is not fully absorbed or removed before intercourse. The anesthetic ingredient could cause temporary numbness or reduced sensation for the partner. Using a condom or thoroughly washing the area after the recommended waiting time can minimize this risk.
Which pill is best for long lasting in bed?
There is no single “best” pill for lasting longer in bed, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Medications like sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) are used to treat erectile dysfunction, which may indirectly improve endurance by improving confidence and reducing anxiety. However, they don’t directly delay ejaculation. Other medications, prescribed off-label, might be suggested by your doctor.
Which is better, Viagra or spray?
Viagra (sildenafil) and delay sprays address different issues. Viagra treats erectile dysfunction, while delay sprays aim to reduce sensitivity and prolong intercourse. One isn’t inherently “better” than the other; it depends on the underlying issue a man is experiencing. A doctor can help determine the most appropriate solution.
How long can a man last with delay spray?
The amount of time a man can last with delay spray varies significantly depending on the individual, the product used, and the dosage. Some men may experience a noticeable increase in duration, while others may not see a significant difference. It’s best to experiment cautiously and follow the product’s instructions.
In conclusion
Premature ejaculation is a common condition that can be managed through several methods. Delay creams, lifestyle changes, and therapy can all help men last longer during sex.
If you are dealing with PE, it’s important to talk to your partner about your concerns. Open communication and professional support are crucial for addressing PE and improving sexual satisfaction for both of you.
There’s no “right” length of time for sex. As Danielle Brightman, Clinical Lead at digital health clinic, Numan, says, “There is no set amount of time for how long sex should last. But ejaculating quicker than desired is a common occurrence and can usually be easily treated.” Focus on pleasure and intimacy. Sex is about connecting with your partner and enjoying the experience, not about hitting some arbitrary time goal. Delay creams can be a useful tool, but they’re just one part of a larger picture of sexual health and well-being.