Sex Talk: How can I put an end to delayed ejaculation?

Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng answers your sex questions

Q: I am 52 years old and my wife is 48. We are enjoying a good sex life except that I suffer from delayed ejaculation. During lovemaking I can go on for more than two hours without ejaculating. I find this frustrating - and my wife is insinuating that I no longer find her attractive hence the failure to ejaculate.

A: One of the least understood conditions affecting male sexual function is delayed ejaculation, and this is partly due to the fact that it is relatively uncommon. Possible causes of delayed orgasm, or failure to achieve it at all, include surgeries, medications and some psychological conditions.

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Some variations in what might be regarded as "normal" ejaculation or orgasm include inability to ejaculate, retrograde ejaculation (entry of semen into the bladder) and a reduction in volume, force or sensation of ejaculation.

In this case, your ability to maintain an erection is a distinguishing feature and has an implication for the type of treatment you require.

Sexual-performance related conditions can become an issue if they cause stress for you, or - as in this case - your partner, and persist for a prolonged period. The anxiety can worsen the problem.

Ideally, your wife will be involved at some point in the therapy process, therefore I would advise you to have a discussion to reassure her that you are aware of the problem and that you are seeking help from your doctor or urologist.

• Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), sexual and reproductive health practice, DISA Clinic, 011-886-2286, visit Safersex.co.za

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