Dear robert3,

Yes, it's definitely normal. Even after the first time, most guys experience early ejaculation (or "premature ejaculation") once in a while, which means that they ejaculate before they want to. Up to 35 percent of men experience early ejaculation often enough that they see it as a problem. But usually, early ejaculation is not a continuing problem.

Being very excited, fear and anxiety about sex, alcohol and drug use, and depression may cause early ejaculation. Open communication with a partner about likes and dislikes, and paying attention to sensation — to slow down the process of getting to the point of ejaculatory inevitability (when ejaculation can no longer be stopped) — during sex play can help guys delay ejaculation.

Men who seek sex therapy for early ejaculation are taught the "squeeze technique." The partner brings the man to erection, but squeezes the penis just below the glans with thumb and forefinger just before the time when ejaculation would become inevitable. The partner applies pressure until the erection is reduced by 10-30 percent. The penis is released for about 30 seconds before it is brought to erection again. This procedure is repeated until the man can go for 15-20 minutes before ejaculating. When he can postpone ejaculation, he is allowed to have intercourse again.

Other men have tried Extended Pleasure condoms by Trojan or Permorax condoms by Durex. These condoms are coated with a mild anesthetic on the inside that desensitizes the penis and helps a guy last longer.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.