Self-reported variations in ejaculatory latency time in premature ejaculation: insights into contextual and behavioural factors

Abstract Intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) is considered a stable parameter in premature ejaculation (PE), while recent research suggests that it may be influenced by physiological, behavioral and contextual factors. This study aimed to assess intraindividual variations in self-reported IELT among patients with PE, focusing on the influence of time of day, sexual position, alcohol consumption and condom use. A total of 119 patients diagnosed with PE were recruited and completed validated questionnaires alongside self-reported measures of IELT in different settings. Ejaculation latency was significantly longer during masturbation (MELT) than vaginal intercourse (Z = 7.53, p < 0.001). Patients reported achieving the longest IELT at different times of the day, though most claimed no unique pattern. Face-to-face (male on top) was the most used sexual position and most often associated with prolonged latency, although non-significantly. Alcohol consumption (Z = 4.84, p < 0.001) and condom use (Z = 4.56, p < 0.001) were associated with longer perceived IELT. Foreplay duration had either no or minimal impact on ejaculation latency for most participants. Importantly, these findings are based on retrospective self-assessment, which may be subject to recall bias and individual misestimation. Nevertheless, the results challenge the assumption of IELT as a fixed diagnostic parameter and underscore the relevance of behavioural and contextual influences.