Finishing earlier than you’d like is one of the most common sexual concerns for tāne (men) in Aotearoa. It can happen at any age — from rangatahi (younger men) just starting out, to older blokes juggling stress, health, and relationships. It’s frustrating, but it’s also very treatable.
What It Actually Means
Premature ejaculation (PE) is when ejaculation happens sooner than expected — often within a couple of minutes of penetration, or even before. The main issue isn’t the stopwatch; it’s the lack of control and the stress that comes with it.
Why It Happens
PE doesn’t have one single cause. Common factors include:
Headspace: anxiety, stress, or performance pressure can trigger it.
High sensitivity: some men are naturally more sensitive.
Health conditions: prostatitis, thyroid problems, or erectile dysfunction can contribute.
Lifestyle stressors: long mahi (work) hours, patchy sleep, or heavy drinking can all play a role.
What Helps
Techniques
Start–stop method: pausing stimulation before climax, then starting again.
Squeeze technique: applying gentle pressure to the penis to delay ejaculation.
Pelvic floor training: men’s health physios in NZ can teach exercises that improve control.
Medical Options in NZ
Topical sprays or creams: available via pharmacies or compounding, reducing sensitivity while keeping pleasure.
Prescription medication: certain antidepressants (SSRIs) are sometimes used to delay ejaculation, though not PHARMAC-funded for this use.
Combination approaches: behavioral techniques and medication often work best together.
Lifestyle
Cutting back on alcohol and nicotine, improving sleep, and managing stress all support better control.
Talking About It
Brushing it off with a “she’ll be right” attitude only adds pressure. A straight kōrero (chat) with your partner can make a huge difference. Most would rather know what’s going on than be left guessing.
How Mr. Can Help
At Mr., we see men dealing with PE every week. We take a discreet, no-judgement approach: assessing underlying health issues, prescribing topical or oral treatments if needed, and helping you with strategies that work.
Key Takeaways
Premature ejaculation is common and treatable.
Causes range from stress and sensitivity to underlying health issues.
Techniques, medications, and lifestyle shift all help improve control.
Mr. provides confidential testing, treatment, and guidance so tāne can get their confidence back in the bedroom.
Dr Afraz Adam
Chief Medical Officer
MBBS. FRNZCUC
