Ejaculation Timing: Concerns for Young Men - Urology

Share to:

After full erection, do not touch for 20 seconds to allow it to subside?


Hello, doctor.
I am 15 years old and started masturbating around the age of 11.
It has become quite frequent now.
However, I have had difficulty maintaining an erection for a long time, which has been an issue for a while, but it has become more noticeable recently.
I recently timed myself and found that without any physical stimulation, I would lose my erection in about 20 seconds, possibly due to anxiety.
I also haven't experienced morning erections lately, which makes me a bit worried.
Today, I visited a small clinic, but the doctor didn't ask many questions and said I was still young and shouldn't worry about this.
However, I still feel something is not right.
Should I stop masturbating for a while? Do I need to go to a larger hospital for further examination?

mm, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/11

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology


Don't worry, just keep observing.
If there are any issues, make an appointment to consult a physician.

Reply Date: 2017/12/11

More Info


Understanding ejaculation timing and related concerns is a common issue among young men, especially during the teenage years when hormonal changes and psychological factors can significantly influence sexual health. At 15 years old, it’s important to recognize that your body is still developing, and variations in sexual function, including ejaculation timing, are quite normal.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that premature ejaculation (PE) is defined as ejaculation that occurs with minimal sexual stimulation, often within one minute of penetration. However, for young men, the concept of "normal" ejaculation timing can vary widely. Factors such as anxiety, stress, and even the pressure to perform can lead to quicker ejaculation times. In your case, the fact that you are feeling anxious about your performance may be contributing to the issue. The mind-body connection is powerful; if you are preoccupied with concerns about how long you can last, it can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates the problem.

Regarding your experience of not maintaining an erection for long and the absence of morning erections, these can also be influenced by psychological factors. Morning erections, or nocturnal penile tumescence, are a normal part of male physiology and can be affected by stress, sleep quality, and overall mental health. If you are experiencing a lack of these, it might be worth considering your emotional and psychological state.
As for your question about whether to stop masturbating, there is no medical evidence to suggest that masturbation causes premature ejaculation or affects sexual performance negatively. In fact, masturbation can be a healthy way to explore your body, understand your sexual responses, and relieve sexual tension. However, if you feel that your frequency of masturbation is contributing to your anxiety or affecting your sexual performance, you might consider moderating it temporarily to see if that helps alleviate some of your concerns.

Visiting a healthcare professional is a good step, especially if you continue to feel anxious or if your symptoms persist. While the doctor you saw may have suggested that you are still young and not to worry, it’s important to advocate for your health. If you feel that your concerns are not being addressed, seeking a second opinion or visiting a specialist, such as a urologist or a psychologist who specializes in sexual health, could provide you with more tailored advice and reassurance.

In summary, it’s crucial to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. Recognize that fluctuations in sexual performance are common during adolescence, and many young men experience similar concerns. Focus on reducing anxiety through relaxation techniques, open communication with trusted individuals, and understanding that sexual health is a journey that can involve ups and downs. If your concerns persist, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice to ensure that you receive the support you need.

Similar Q&A

How to Manage Premature Ejaculation: Tips for Young Men

I am 16 years old, and I noticed that when I have sex with my girlfriend, I tend to ejaculate very quickly, lasting at most 1 to 2 minutes. I would like to ask if there is a way to address this issue.


Dr. Liu Mingyue reply Urology
Hello: You may be trying to express that your ejaculation time does not meet your expectations. According to the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM), the definition of premature ejaculation requires that men meet the following three criteria: 1) inability to delay ej...

[Read More] How to Manage Premature Ejaculation: Tips for Young Men


Concerns About Early Ejaculation in Prepubescent Boys: What You Need to Know

I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: This response is for reference. 1. I ejaculate almost every four days, but I am only 11-12 years old, and my penis and sexual organs have not fully developed. Will this cause any problems in the future? --> No. 2. I found some information online that says early ejacu...

[Read More] Concerns About Early Ejaculation in Prepubescent Boys: What You Need to Know


Understanding Sexual Function Issues: A Young Adult's Concerns

Hello Doctor: I am currently 21 years old and have phimosis and varicocele. I do not smoke or drink. During the summer vacation, I masturbate about every two to three days. I am a senior in college preparing for graduate school entrance exams, and I am experiencing stress related...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The answers provided here are for reference only and cannot replace a physician's examination. 1. Does varicocele affect sexual function? --> No. 2. Can the duration of masturbation be improved by frequently retracting the foreskin to reduce sensitivity of the gla...

[Read More] Understanding Sexual Function Issues: A Young Adult's Concerns


Understanding Sexual Function Issues: Common Concerns for Young Men

Is it normal to masturbate twice a week? Is it normal to ejaculate after three minutes of masturbation? As a young person, could I experience sexual dysfunction? Sometimes I notice that my erection hardness isn’t very good, or I ejaculate before becoming fully erect, but at other...


Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology
Generally, young people do not experience erectile dysfunction; if it occurs, it is often related to psychological factors and there is no need for concern.

[Read More] Understanding Sexual Function Issues: Common Concerns for Young Men


Related FAQ