Sexual Endurance

Stamina can mean many things, but when it comes to sex, it often refers to how long you can last in the bedroom. Good sexual endurance has many benefits, including a more satisfying sex life, happier partners, an increase in self-confidence, and much more. 

But how long is long enough? Most men ejaculate between 5 to 10 minutes after the start of sexual intercourse. The clinical definition of premature ejaculation is ejaculation in 3 minutes or less after the start of intercourse. Even though 5 to 10 minutes is considered average and normal, it is perfectly natural to want to improve your sexual performance to satisfy yourself and your partner.

What can harm or decrease my sexual endurance? 

Many things can compromise your sexual stamina, including: 

• Low libido or sex drive 
• Delayed or inhibited ejaculation 
• Premature ejaculation 
• Erectile dysfunction 
• Unhealthy physical condition (over or underweight, having a chronic condition such as, diabetes or atherosclerosis, nerve damage, etc.) 
• Low testosterone 
• Excessive smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use 
• Certain prescription medications (blood pressure drugs, anti-depressants) 
• Anxiety about sexual performance 
• Sexual trauma, guilt, or abuse 
• Relationship problems 
• Overwhelming stress or anxiety 
• Depression and other mood disorders 

When should I see a doctor to discuss my sexual endurance? 

You can still have concerns about sexual endurance even if you do not have a textbook case of erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation. Having good sexual stamina is a sign of good health. If you see your sexual stamina drop off for no discernible reason, you should see your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are always preferable to waiting until the problem worsens. It could prove costly to your health. 

What complications can occur from the loss of sexual endurance? 

While limited sexual endurance is not necessarily an urgent health issue, it can be a sign of the beginning of  a health problem in need of medical attention. It could be an indicator of prematurely declining testosterone levels, or a blood circulation disorder. It may cause dissatisfaction in your intimate relationships and lead to less pleasurable sexual encounters in the future. Of course, getting older will naturally cause some reduction of stamina in the bedroom, but no one knows your body better than you. If you feel something is wrong, or that the sudden loss of sexual endurance is not normal for you, consult your doctor and advocate for your own sexual health. 

What can I do to increase my sexual endurance? 

You can try the following methods to increase your sexual endurance on your own by: 

• Eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly 
• Taking certain traditional herbal medicines (consult with your doctor) 
• Managing your stress effectively through various means (yoga, mindfulness, etc.) 
• Doing pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises 
• Reducing or eliminating pornographic consumption (frequent pornography could have a desensitizing effect) 
• Focusing more on foreplay before engaging in intercourse 
• Getting enough sleep 
• Reducing or quitting unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use 
• Masturbating for longevity 
• Taking over the counter topical products to help desensitize the penis partially during intercourse 

What medical treatments are available for restoring sexual endurance? 

There are several effective medical remedies prescribed based on the diagnosed cause for low sexual stamina. Treatments include, but are not limited to: 

• Testosterone replacement therapy 
• Prescription topical products to desensitize the penis 
• Counseling/cognitive behavioral therapy 
• Erectile dysfunction medications for off label purposes

The truth about sexual endurance is that it matters at the most intimate level. Besides the pleasure we get ourselves and partners, it serves as a reliable indicator of our overall health and wellbeing. If you are experiencing an unexpected drop in sexual stamina, we can help. Request your confidential online consultation with NeedMD today. We will provide the fast-acting solutions you need in the privacy and comfort of your own home.