Frequency and impact

How many men suffer from premature ejaculation?

PE is a common medical condition, with some experts believing that as many as one-third of all men will experience PE at some point in their lives, although the proportion of men who experience considerable distress is probably a lot lower. The true frequency of what is quite a private condition is understandably hard to estimate.

Contrary to what you may have heard or read, PE isn't linked to a particular age group - studies have shown that a similar number of men in their fifties have PE as men in their teens and early twenties⁹. PE also seems to be a problem experienced by men in many parts of the world, as the number of men with PE is similar between different cultures and countries^10,11.

What is the impact of premature ejaculation?

The burden of PE on couples can be both emotional and physical. It can cause low self-confidence, anxiety, and feelings of shame. In some studies an association with depression has also been shown¹².

A recent survey of over 12,000 men and their female partners, showed that the partners of men with PE had significantly worse sexual lives, more distress and greater concern about their overall relationship compared with partners of men without PE¹⁰.

Frequency and impact

What is the impact of premature ejaculation?

Many women report feelings of anger and resentment at the apparently selfish behavior of their partner¹⁹. Women may also report that partners with PE are less likely to initiate sexual intercourse due to fear and anxiety related to performance. This can lead to feelings of low self-worth and unattractiveness for the woman¹.

Frequency and impact

Both women and men may feel that there is something missing from their relationship, and that this affects their sense of intimacy¹. Female partners of men with PE often discuss a desire to improve their sexual lives and reduce levels of distress in their relationship¹⁹. Yet many women feel unable to discuss the issue of PE because they understand their partners concern and they fear upsetting him even more.