Premature ejaculation (PE) is surprisingly common. Studies show that roughly one in three men between the ages of 18 and 59 in the U.S. experience it at some point.
If you’re looking for a way to last longer in bed, you might have heard of delay wipes for men, or even delay cream for men. These wipes contain a small amount of a topical anesthetic like benzocaine. This can temporarily reduce sensation, which can, in turn, help delay ejaculation.
In this article, we’ll cover how delay wipes work, how well they work, any potential side effects, and some other options if delay wipes aren’t for you.
How Delay Wipes Work
Delay wipes work because they contain benzocaine, a topical anesthetic. Think of it like the stuff your dentist uses to numb your gums before a filling – but formulated for ahem other sensitive areas.
Benzocaine temporarily numbs the penis, which decreases sensitivity. This reduced sensitivity can increase the amount of time it takes to reach orgasm, helping to delay ejaculation.
To use them, you simply wipe the solution onto your penis, usually the glans (the head), a few minutes before you plan to have sex, consider your condom choice too, perhaps exploring Durex condom sizes. You’ll want to give it about five minutes to dry completely before getting intimate, both for maximum effect and to minimize any transfer of the numbing agent to your partner.
How well do delay wipes work?
Delay wipes have been clinically tested, and research suggests they can be effective for some men.
Studies on ejaculation latency time
A 2017 study looked at the use of wipes containing 4% benzocaine. The men who used the wipes experienced an average increase of 231.5 seconds (almost 4 minutes!) in their ejaculation latency time, which is the time it takes to reach ejaculation. Interestingly, the men in the placebo group also showed an increase of 94.2 seconds. This may be because the men knew they were participating in a study about sexual performance, and that knowledge helped them last longer.
Another study in 2019 came to similar conclusions about the effectiveness of benzocaine wipes. The fact that different studies are coming to the same conclusions suggests that these wipes can be a useful tool.
Factors affecting effectiveness
Keep in mind that how well these wipes work can depend on a few things, such as:
- how sensitive you are to benzocaine
- how much you use and how you apply it
- your mental state and anxiety levels
Pros and Cons of Using Delay Wipes
Like any product, delay wipes have both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if they’re right for you.
Pros
- Easy to get and use: You can buy delay wipes at drugstores or online without a prescription.
- May help with mild PE: Some men find that delay wipes are effective for occasional or mild premature ejaculation.
- Work quickly: Delay wipes typically start working within a few minutes.
Cons
- Not a cure: Delay wipes only provide a temporary fix and don’t address the underlying cause of PE.
- Possible side effects: Some men experience skin irritation or even erectile dysfunction from using delay wipes.
- Rare but serious risk: In very rare cases, the active ingredient in delay wipes (usually benzocaine or lidocaine) can cause methemoglobinemia, a serious blood disorder.
- Reduced sensation: Delay wipes can reduce sensation for both partners, which may affect sexual pleasure.
- Not FDA-approved: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t evaluated or approved delay wipes, so their safety and effectiveness haven’t been officially verified.
Comparing Popular Delay Wipe Brands
Several brands offer delay wipes for men. Here’s a look at some of the most well-known:
Roman Swipes
- Benzocaine concentration: 4% Male Desensitizing Benzocaine Unscented Wipes.
- Pricing and subscription options: A box of 8 wipes is $27 ($3.38 each), and there’s a $10 trial discount.
- Packaging and discreetness: (Further details would be added here, based on research).
Hims Clockstopper
- Pricing and subscription options: $65 for a three-month subscription, plus a $5 processing fee. A starter pack with 3 wipes is $19.
- Other product offerings: Hims offers a range of other sexual health products.
- Packaging and discreetness: (Further details would be added here, based on research).
RexMD Performance Wipes
- Pricing and shipping options: A box with 10 wipes is $14.95, and shipping is free.
- Other product offerings: RexMD, like Hims, offers other sexual health items.
- Packaging and discreetness: (Further details would be added here, based on research).
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Like any medication, delay wipes can have side effects. Here are some potential issues to be aware of:
- Skin irritation and allergic reactions: Some men may experience redness, itching, or swelling.
- Erectile dysfunction: Although rare, some users have reported temporary difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Reduced sensation: Both you and your partner may experience decreased sensation, potentially impacting enjoyment. This is due to the numbing effect of benzocaine.
- Partner transfer: The benzocaine in the wipes can transfer to your partner, causing numbness for them as well.
- Methemoglobinemia: This is a very rare but serious condition where the blood can’t carry oxygen properly. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like shortness of breath, headache, fatigue, or blue-tinged skin.
If you experience any bothersome side effects, it’s important to consult with a doctor.
What are some alternatives to delay wipes?
If delay wipes aren’t your thing, or if you’re looking for other options, there are several alternatives available. These include:
- Delay sprays. Products like K-Y Duration spray contain numbing agents to reduce sensitivity, but there are other options like Breathe Delay Spray too.
- Prescription medications. Certain antidepressants (SSRIs) can have a side effect of delaying ejaculation.
- Therapy and counseling. Addressing psychological factors can sometimes help.
- Treating underlying medical conditions. Premature ejaculation can sometimes be related to other health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a man last with Delay Spray?
Results with delay spray will vary from person to person. Some men report lasting significantly longer—we’re talking several minutes, potentially even longer—while others may experience a more modest extension of their performance. Factors like individual sensitivity, dosage, and technique all play a role. It’s best to experiment to find what works for you.
Do delay wipes really work?
Yes, delay wipes can work, but it’s important to have realistic expectations. They contain a mild anesthetic, like benzocaine or lidocaine, that temporarily reduces sensitivity. This can help delay climax, but they’re not a magic bullet. Effectiveness depends on the individual and the product’s strength.
Which pill is best for long lasting in bed?
There isn’t a single “best” pill for everyone. Some prescription medications, like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), can be prescribed off-label to help delay ejaculation. However, these medications have potential side effects and should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right course of action for you.
Is delay spray for men safe for oral?
Generally, no. While some delay sprays might be used before oral sex, it’s crucial to check the product label. Many are not designed to be ingested and may contain ingredients that are unsafe for oral consumption. If you’re planning on engaging in oral sex, thoroughly wash off the spray beforehand or choose a product specifically formulated for that purpose.
Do delay wipes have a taste?
Delay wipes often have a slightly bitter or medicinal taste due to the anesthetic they contain. While the taste is usually mild, it’s worth considering, especially if you anticipate oral contact. Again, thoroughly washing the area after use can help minimize any lingering taste.
Summary
Delay wipes can be a convenient, temporary solution for premature ejaculation (PE). If PE is an ongoing concern, you should talk with your doctor. Wipes aren’t a cure, and other options are available if you’re looking for something more.