One of the common questions in the field of sexual health is: how long does natural sex last? The answer depends on many factors and varies between individuals and even at different times for the same person.
According to studies and precise measurements in reputable scientific sources such as articles published on PubMed and NCBI, the average time men take to reach orgasm, and ejaculation is between 5 to 7 minutes. However, this duration can vary widely from less than a minute to over half an hour.
This article is brought to you by Dr. Saeed Behckam, clinical psychologist, counselor, and sex therapist serving clients in Iran (Tehran) and Canada (Toronto, Richmond Hill, and Vancouver).
Do you have this misconception?
According to information published by Informed Health, a common misconception is that men tend to overestimate their ejaculation time, often reporting durations 25% to 50% longer than the actual time. Therefore, comparing with others’ claims is not a reliable standard.
About 4% of men have poor control over ejaculation timing and usually experience premature ejaculation—that is, ejaculating before or immediately after penetration. If this causes anxiety or distress, it is called premature ejaculation (PE), which is medically diagnosable and treatable through methods including medication and sex therapy.
Causes of Premature Ejaculation
There is insufficient research on the exact causes of premature ejaculation, and only hypotheses exist. Some experts believe biological factors such as hypersensitivity of the penis or hormonal and neural interactions are causes. Others think psychological factors, including relationship problems or fear of sexual performance failure, play a role. Often, it is a combination of physical and psychological factors.
Prevalence and Misconceptions
Some advertising campaigns exaggerate the prevalence of premature ejaculation, claiming that 20% to 30% of men have it. In contrast, scientific and diagnostic criteria indicate that only about 4% of men experience persistent, distressing premature ejaculation.
Diagnosis of Premature Ejaculation
You can consult a urologist or family doctor to diagnose this issue. The doctor will ask about the average ejaculation time, frequency of premature ejaculation, level of distress, and ability to control ejaculation timing.
Premature ejaculation is diagnosed when:
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Ejaculation occurs repeatedly within one minute after penetration for over 6 months,
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Causes severe anxiety or distress,
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No other medical condition explains the problem.
Management and Treatments
Treating premature ejaculation is highly personal and offers multiple options:
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Specific techniques to better control ejaculation, such as pausing sexual stimulation before orgasm,
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Medications that can prolong ejaculation time (oral drugs or topical anesthetics), though side effects may occur,
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Sexual therapy to boost confidence, reduce performance anxiety, and address relationship issues if present,
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Some antidepressants (SSRIs) that can delay ejaculation time.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are a class of antidepressants that increase serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical that promotes well-being and calmness and is often low in depression.
Note: This explanation is for general information only; “Behckam” site does not provide any prescription or medical advice.
Daily Life and Attitude Toward Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation can greatly affect self-confidence and sexual relationship quality but should not reduce self-esteem. It becomes a problem when it causes anxiety and negatively impacts sexual life.
Focusing on other aspects of intimacy such as kissing, touching, and creating closeness can help reduce the focus on ejaculation timing.
Open and honest communication about feelings and concerns is usually the best way to manage the problem.
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International Study on Ejaculation Duration
A study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine involving 500 couples from the Netherlands, the UK, Spain, Turkey, and the USA, all men over 18 in stable relationships of at least 6 months, measured ejaculation duration with a stopwatch.
Results:
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Average ejaculation time was 5.4 minutes,
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Duration ranged from less than one minute to over 44 minutes.
Effect of Age on Ejaculation Duration
With increasing age, ejaculation duration decreases. Men aged 18–30 averaged 6.5 minutes, while men over 51 averaged about 4.3 minutes.
Differences Among Countries
Ejaculation time varied by country. For example, men in Turkey had significantly shorter average ejaculation times compared to others.
Effect of Circumcision and Condom Use
Circumcision status and condom use did not affect ejaculation duration.
Conclusion
Ejaculation duration is a highly personal and variable phenomenon. Unrealistic expectations can cause unnecessary worry. If discomfort arises, consulting a doctor is recommended. Problems may also stem from stress, anxiety, or marital issues, so taking the first step toward improving yourself and your relationship is essential.
Looking for expert advice on enhancing your mental and sexual health?
If you’re ready to take control of your psychological, relational, or sexual well-being, Dr. Saeed Behckam, one of the top Iranian clinical psychologists and sex therapists in Tehran and in Canada (Toronto, Richmond Hill, and Vancouver), is here to help.
Source: PubMed, NCBI
