Want to Last Longer? New Study on Condoms with Anesthetics

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, "If only it could last a little longer"? And it doesn't matter whether you have a diagnosis of premature ejaculation or not. Sometimes you just want to prolong the pleasure. Previously, the only options were special sprays for those with a confirmed medical issue. But what about everyone else? New research suggests that a simple and affordable option may soon be available: condoms with an anesthetic inside.

Scientists studied how regular latex condoms, with a benzocaine paste added to the tip (a local anesthetic that slightly numbs sensitivity), affect intercourse duration in healthy men. The study involved 143 couples, with men averaging 34 years and women 32 years. None had issues with erection or ejaculation. First, the couples had sex as usual for four weeks, timing from penetration to ejaculation. Then, they completed three additional four-week periods using different condoms: standard, with 3% benzocaine, and with 5% benzocaine. The participants were blinded: all condoms came in identical, unbranded packaging.

The results are impressive. Using any condom (even without anesthetic) increased duration by about a minute. But with benzocaine, the effect was stronger: the 5% paste added nearly 12% to baseline time, while 3% added almost 3%. Sounds modest? Let's convert that to minutes. The average baseline time was about 6.8 minutes. With 5% benzocaine, participants lasted about 2.85 minutes longer, and with 3%, about 2.1 minutes longer. Moreover, participants themselves perceived improvements on a validated scale, feeling they were more "skilled," and this was reflected in the numbers.

But there are caveats. First, this is the first study of its kind, conducted on healthy couples, not those diagnosed with premature ejaculation. In men with this condition, the effect may differ—they typically have a more sensitive glans, so they may need more anesthetic. Second, the study is small and lasted only a few months, so long-term effects are unknown. Third, although most couples were satisfied, two participants reported side effects: one experienced delayed ejaculation, and another reported loss of sensation in both partners. So, as with any product, it's important to try and listen to your body.

What does this mean for you? If you occasionally want to last longer but don't want to see a doctor for a spray prescription, condoms with benzocaine may soon hit pharmacy shelves—a more discreet and accessible option. But until they are widely available, you can discuss with your partner and doctor which options suit you best. Remember: the most important thing in sex is not seconds, but pleasure and intimacy.

Would you try these condoms if they became available? Or are regular ones enough for you? Share in the comments!