Premature ejaculation
Acquired premature ejaculation: when lasting longer suddenly gets harder
If you used to last a satisfying time and now finish much sooner, you may have acquired premature ejaculation, also called secondary PE. Unlike lifelong PE, it usually has a cause that can be found.
In short: Acquired premature ejaculation develops after a period of normal control. Common causes include erectile difficulties, anxiety or relationship stress, prostate inflammation, thyroid imbalance, and stopping certain medicines or substances. Identifying and addressing the cause, together with behavioural techniques, often restores control.
Lifelong versus acquired PE
Lifelong PE is present from the first sexual experiences. Acquired PE starts later, often suddenly. The difference matters, because acquired PE more often has a treatable trigger.
Common causes
Erection worries
Men who notice their erection weakening may rush to finish before losing it. Over time this becomes a habit. See premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
Anxiety and stress
Work pressure, money worries or relationship strain speed up the ejaculation reflex.
Prostate inflammation
Prostatitis can cause pelvic discomfort, painful ejaculation and faster ejaculation. Read prostatitis natural remedies.
Thyroid imbalance
An overactive thyroid has been linked to premature ejaculation. See thyroid and erectile dysfunction.
Changes in medicines or substances
Stopping some antidepressants, or withdrawing from opioids or other drugs, can affect ejaculation timing.
Long gaps between sex
Infrequent sex increases sensitivity.
Signs worth checking
- Pain in the pelvis, perineum or when ejaculating
- Burning when urinating
- Weight loss, sweating or a racing heart
- Weaker erections at the same time
If you have these, see an appropriately registered medical professional to rule out infection or thyroid problems.
What helps
Treat the trigger
Addressing erection worries, stress or inflammation often brings control back.
Behavioural techniques
Premature ejaculation exercises, the start-stop and squeeze techniques, and slow breathing.
Communication
Talking with your partner reduces pressure.
Natural support
Our naturopaths look at stress, sleep, pelvic health and lifestyle and build a personalised natural plan.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you usually ejaculate sooner than you or your partner would like?
- Has this always been the case, or did it start recently?
- Do you feel you have little or no control over when you ejaculate?
- Is it causing stress, avoidance or tension in your relationship?
- Do you also have trouble getting or keeping an erection?
A yes to questions one, three or four suggests a consultation would help. Problems that started recently, or that come with erection difficulties, are worth discussing early, because the cause often guides the most effective natural plan.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What causes premature ejaculation to start suddenly?
Common triggers include erection worries, anxiety, prostate inflammation, thyroid imbalance and changes in medicines or substances.
Is acquired premature ejaculation treatable?
Usually yes. Once the cause is found and addressed, most men regain control with the help of techniques and support.
Can erectile dysfunction cause premature ejaculation?
Yes. Men worried about losing an erection often rush to finish, which can become a pattern.
Should I get tested if I suddenly ejaculate faster?
If you also have pain, urinary symptoms or signs of thyroid problems, yes. Otherwise start with stress and erection factors.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
- Mayo Clinic: Premature ejaculation
- Mayo Clinic: Prostatitis
- Mayo Clinic: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
