I am worried past erection problems will ruin my new relationship

DEAR DEIDRE: I’VE started dating a woman who I really like but worry my sex problems will put her off me.

I suffer from premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction and this has derailed previous relationships.

I’m 32 and she’s 28. We met online and have grown close through messaging.

We had a few dates and kissed but I’ve made excuses when she’s hinted she wants to become more intimate.

I’m worried she’s starting to think I don’t fancy her.

In my last relationship, I ended up feeling like a total failure in bed.

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The premature ejaculation happened first – and then, because I was worried it would happen again, I started finding it impossible to get an erection.

My ex tried to be sympathetic but the more I worried about it, the worse my problems got.

How can I explain my issues to my new girlfriend without making her run a mile?

MORE FROM DEAR DEIDRE

DEIDRE SAYS: They are both extremely common, can be caused by physical and psychological issues and tend to be made worse by stress. It’s a vicious circle.

Read my support packs about Erection Problems and Lasting Longer, which have self-help steps.

Take things slowly with your new girlfriend.

Concentrate on kissing and touching, and giving her pleasure, which will take the pressure off.

Talk to your GP, too, if you’re worried.