While premature ejaculation does not directly result in infertility, it can make pregnancy more difficult. By treating it with lifestyle changes, medical attention, and counseling, men may regain confidence and improve their chances of becoming fathers.

VERIFIED By: Dr Hima Deepthi, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad

Premature ejaculation and male infertility: One of the most prevalent male sexual dysfunctions, premature ejaculation (PE) affects intimacy. It is the inability to regulate ejaculation, which happens within a minute of penetration or even before sexual activity starts. PE can lead to problems with conception, because of factors like poor sperm deposition, psychological stress, and performance anxiety, even if it is not the direct cause of male infertility. According to Dr Hima Deepthi, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, it is important to recognise how early ejaculation affects fertility. Usually, for conception to occur, the sperms must travel through the female reproductive system and reach the egg. When there is severe premature ejaculation, the vagina may not receive enough sperms, because ejaculation occurs too soon after penetration, or before. This reduces the likelihood of fertilisation, especially if sexual activity is not timed to coincide with the woman's ovulation phase, the doctor explains.

"Additionally, men who have premature ejaculation may avoid sexual activity out of embarrassment or irritation, which decreases the frequency of sex, further reducing the odds of becoming pregnant. Secondary issues like erectile dysfunction (ED), which can be triggered by the stress and anxiety associated with PE, may further affect some couples' ability to conceive naturally," Dr Hima says.

Does Premature Ejaculation Indicate An Underlying Fertility Issue?

The fertility specialist says premature ejaculation cannot be taken as a direct sign of infertility, because it has no effect on sperm motility, count, or quality. Some men, however, may have neurological conditions, prostatitis, or hormonal imbalances that impact fertility if they exhibit premature ejaculation. Premature ejaculation-related anxiety and psychological stress may affect overall sexual function, leading to erratic or ineffective sperm dispersion, she adds.

In What Ways Can Men With PE Increase Their Chances Of Becoming Fathers?

In order to have intercourse during the most fertile days, couples who are attempting to conceive should monitor the woman's ovulation cycle, because it can significantly increase their chances of becoming pregnant, even if PE occurs. It is important to anticipate when the sperms have the best probability of fertilising the egg, and ensure that sexual activity takes place around that time.

"Enhancing ejaculatory control can be achieved by strengthening the pelvic muscles using exercises like Kegels. By strengthening endurance and helping men postpone ejaculation, regular practice of these exercises can help them engage in sexual activity for extended periods of time," the doctor advises, adding that therapy or counseling can also improve sexual function and confidence by addressing psychological issues including stress, performance anxiety, and/or relationship issues.

Medical Interventions

If PE significantly interferes with conception, a doctor may recommend medical interventions such as topical anesthetics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), or other medications to help prolong ejaculation. "These treatments can assist in improving control over ejaculation, making it easier for couples to conceive naturally. In severe cases where natural conception is difficult, fertility specialists may suggest assisted reproductive techniques (ART) such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) to facilitate sperm delivery. These techniques may help the sperm reach the egg successfully," the doctor concludes.