Premature Ejaculation in Australia: Causes and Common Myths

Premature ejaculation (PE) is when ejaculation happens sooner than you or your partner would like, often with little control over it. It’s very common, it can affect men of any age, and it’s treatable. If it happens regularly and bothers you, a GP can help work out why and talk you through options.

This article explains what PE is, what causes it, common myths, what you can try yourself and when to see a doctor.

What is premature ejaculation?

Most men ejaculate quickly from time to time, especially with a new partner, after a long break from sex or when very aroused. That’s normal. PE is usually described as ejaculation that:

• happens very soon after penetration (often within about a minute), or before penetration
• happens most or all of the time
• feels hard or impossible to delay
• causes distress, frustration or avoidance of sex

According to healthdirect, PE is the most common sexual problem affecting males.

Lifelong and acquired PE

• Lifelong PE has been present since your first sexual experiences.
• Acquired PE develops later, after a time of having more control. It’s more likely to have a specific trigger, such as stress, erection problems or a relationship change.

What causes PE?

Often there’s no single cause, and both mind and body can be involved.

Psychological and relationship factors

• performance anxiety or worry about pleasing a partner
• general anxiety and stress
• depression or low self-esteem
• relationship difficulties
• early sexual experiences where there was pressure to finish quickly

Physical factors

• Erectile dysfunction. Men who worry about losing an erection may hurry to ejaculate. Treating ED can sometimes improve PE. See our article on the causes of erectile dysfunction.
• inflammation or infection of the prostate or urethra
• thyroid problems
• genetic and biological factors, particularly in lifelong PE
• alcohol or recreational drug use, or stopping certain medicines

Common myths about PE

Myth: “It’s all in your head.”

Anxiety and stress can play a big part, but biological factors are involved too, especially in lifelong PE. It’s not a sign of weakness or a lack of willpower.

Myth: “Only young or inexperienced men get it.”

PE is more common in younger men, but it can affect men at any age and at any stage of a relationship.

Myth: “It means you’re not attracted to your partner.”

PE isn’t a measure of attraction or love. In fact, high arousal and wanting to please a partner can make it more likely.

Myth: “Nothing can be done.”

There are practical techniques, counselling and medical treatments that help many men. A doctor can talk through what may suit you.

Myth: “Products sold online are an easy fix.”

Products sold outside the regulated system may contain undeclared ingredients and may not be safe. It’s better to speak to a doctor or pharmacist.

Things you can try yourself

These approaches help some men, and many people find them work best with a supportive partner:

• The stop-start technique: stopping stimulation when you feel close to ejaculating, waiting until the urge eases, then starting again.
• The squeeze technique: gently squeezing the head of the penis for several seconds when you’re close, to reduce the urge.
• Pelvic floor exercises, which may improve control for some men.
• Using condoms, which can reduce sensation.
• Slow breathing and changing positions or pace.
• Taking the pressure off. Focusing on intimacy and pleasure rather than how long sex lasts can reduce anxiety.

Your pharmacist can advise about over-the-counter options, such as numbing sprays or creams, and how to use them safely.

How a doctor can help

A GP will ask about your symptoms, how long they’ve been happening, your erections, your relationship, your mood and your general health. They’ll look for anything that might be contributing, such as ED, anxiety or a prostate problem. Depending on what’s going on, they may suggest:

• behavioural techniques like those above, with guidance
• counselling or sex therapy, on your own or with your partner
• treating an underlying problem, such as ED or anxiety
• prescription treatment if clinically appropriate
• referral to a psychologist or specialist where needed

When to see a GP

• PE happens most of the time and it’s bothering you or your partner
• it started recently after a time of good control
• you also have erection problems
• you have pain when ejaculating, blood in your semen, or pain or burning when you wee
• it’s affecting your mood, confidence or relationship

When to get urgent help

PE itself isn’t an emergency. Go to your nearest emergency department or call 000 if you have sudden severe pain or swelling in a testicle, or fever with severe pain in the groin, lower tummy or when weeing.

If you’re feeling very low or having thoughts of harming yourself, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or 000 in an emergency.

How Teldoc can help

Our AHPRA-registered GPs can talk with you about PE confidentially by phone or video, 7 days a week from 9 am to 7 pm (Sydney time). Most patients are seen within 15 minutes. Your doctor can assess what may be contributing, prescribe treatment if clinically appropriate with an eScript sent to your phone, arrange tests if needed, and provide a referral to a psychologist or specialist.

PE consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. Without Medicare, private fees apply. See our fees page, read more about premature ejaculation treatment online, or explore our sexual health services.

Frequently asked questions

How quick is premature ejaculation?

PE is often described as ejaculating within about a minute of penetration, most of the time, with little control. What matters most is whether it’s happening regularly and causing distress.

Is premature ejaculation common?

Yes. It’s the most common sexual problem in men. It can happen at any age, although it’s more common in younger men.

Can premature ejaculation be treated?

Yes. Options include behavioural techniques, counselling, treating any underlying issue such as erectile dysfunction or anxiety, and prescription treatment if clinically appropriate.

Can I see a doctor about PE online?

Yes. A GP can usually assess PE by phone or video. At Teldoc, PE consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.

This article is general health information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your own doctor. If you’re worried about your health, speak to a GP. In an emergency, call 000.

Medically reviewed by Dr Vafa Derakshan (MBBS, FRACGP), September 2026