Premature Ejaculation (PE) Premature ejaculation is a male sexual dysfunction characterized by: Ejaculation which always or nearly always occurs prior to or within about one minute of vaginal penetration. Inability to delay ejaculation on all or nearly all vaginal penetrations; and, negative personal consequences, such as distress, bother, frustration, and/or the avoidance of sexual intimacy. Premature ejaculation is divided into lifelong and acquired categories: Lifelong premature ejaculation. With lifelong premature ejaculation, the patient has experienced premature ejaculation since first beginning coitus. Acquired premature ejaculation. With acquired premature ejaculation, the patient previously had successful coital relationships and only now has developed premature ejaculation. Performance anxiety. Performance anxiety is a form of psychogenic ED, usually caused by stress.