What is Delayed Ejaculation and What Causes It?

Delayed ejaculation is a persistent or recurrent difficulty ejaculating, despite adequate stimulation and a desire to ejaculate. It may involve a long delay or an inability to ejaculate during sexual activity and can cause distress. Orgasm and ejaculation often occur together but are separate processes, so some people may experience one without the other. Common causes include psychological factors like performance anxiety, stress, or relationship issues, along with physical factors such as certain medications (particularly antidepressants), hormonal imbalances, nerve damage, or chronic health conditions like diabetes. Age-related changes and substance use can also contribute. The condition can be lifelong or acquired later in life, and may occur in all situations or only specific circumstances.