Persons most commonly affected: Adolescents, young adults and other sexually naive males are more likely to experience this condition than other age groups and sexually mature males.

Organ or part of body involved: Male sexual organ

Symptoms and indications: Ejaculation happens before the individual or couple would like. This may range from before penetration to a point too soon after penetration for the couple to feel fully satisfied.

Causes and risk factors: Factors such as lack of sexual experience, lack of knowledge regarding normal male and female sexual responses, and the association of psychological factors (fear, guilt, and anxiety, for example) with sexual activity, all increase risk. The main cause of premature ejaculation is biological. Upon sexual stimulation and arousal, the normal physical responses for a man and a woman are similar. A man will achieve a climax and then ejaculate about two to three minutes after penetrating the vagina. Women will reach orgasm about 12 to 14 minutes after intercourse occurs. Many women do not achieve orgasm especially if only penetration of the vagina by the penis occurs during sexual activity. Many women achieve orgasm through other methods of sexual stimulation although for some, orgasm is not achieved under any circumstances nor with any type of stimulation. Roughly 10% of women fall into this category. Other causes of premature ejaculation include psychological factors such as marital and relationship issues, performance anxiety (with partners new to each other and especially in the inexperienced partner), fear (associated with concerns regarding getting caught or discovered, sexually transmitted diseases or potential pregnancy), and guilt (believing the activity is sinful e.g., premarital or extramarital sex).

Prevention: The knowledge of normal male and female sexual responses prior to engaging in sexual activity may be helpful in preventing premature ejaculation. The emergence of sexual tension and relationship difficulties are greatly reduced if sexual activity occurs under these circumstances: only after the partners know each other well and are comfortable with one another. Both partners consent to sexual intimacy without feeling pressured. Sexual activity should occur in a private and relaxed setting. In addition, contraception issues should be discussed, decided and acted upon by the couple.