Ejaculation problems
Delayed ejaculation: causes and natural treatment options
Most men worry about finishing too soon, but taking too long, or being unable to ejaculate at all, can be just as frustrating. Delayed ejaculation is less talked about, yet it affects a significant number of men.
In short: Delayed ejaculation means needing a long time, often 30 minutes or more, of sexual stimulation to ejaculate, or being unable to. Common causes include some medicines (especially antidepressants), alcohol, low testosterone, nerve problems from diabetes, ageing, anxiety and habitual masturbation styles. Natural approaches focus on these causes.
What is delayed ejaculation?
Delayed ejaculation is a persistent difficulty or inability to reach orgasm and ejaculate despite enough stimulation and desire. It may happen with a partner only, or in all situations. It may be lifelong or start later in life.
Common causes
Medicines
Antidepressants (SSRIs), some blood pressure medicines, antipsychotics, opioid painkillers and some prostate medicines can delay ejaculation. See medications that cause erectile dysfunction.
Alcohol and recreational drugs
Heavy drinking dulls nerve signals and can make orgasm harder.
Low testosterone and ageing
Sensitivity and ejaculatory force naturally decline with age, and low testosterone can contribute.
Nerve damage
Diabetes, spinal problems and pelvic surgery can affect the nerves involved.
Psychological factors
Anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties and past experiences can all play a part. See performance anxiety in men.
Masturbation habits
A very tight grip, fast pace or reliance on specific stimulation can make partnered sex feel less intense. See death grip syndrome.
Natural ways to help
- Review medicines with the professional who prescribed them. Never stop them on your own.
- Reduce alcohol, especially before sex.
- Change masturbation habits: take a break, then use a lighter touch and slower pace.
- Reduce porn use, which can make arousal less responsive to a partner.
- Focus on sensation, not performance, and talk openly with your partner about what works.
- Support healthy testosterone through sleep, exercise and weight. See how to increase testosterone naturally.
- Pelvic floor awareness: some men benefit from learning to relax and coordinate these muscles.
When to see a medical professional
See an appropriately registered medical professional if delayed ejaculation started suddenly, comes with pain, numbness or other symptoms, or you have diabetes or neurological conditions.
Support from a naturopath
A confidential consultation can help identify likely causes and build a natural plan covering lifestyle, stress and sexual habits. Also read dry ejaculation treatment.
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.
- Have you noticed a change in the amount, colour or consistency of your semen?
- Do you feel pain or burning during or after ejaculation?
- Have you had trouble ejaculating, or does it take much longer than before?
- Do you smoke, drink most days, or sit for long hours?
- Are you and your partner trying for a baby?
Pain, burning, blood in the semen or a sudden change should be checked by an appropriately registered medical professional first. For lifestyle-related changes, a naturopath can help you build a natural plan to support healthy function.
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
Why can’t I ejaculate during sex?
Common reasons include medicines, alcohol, anxiety, masturbation habits, low testosterone and nerve problems.
How long is too long to ejaculate?
If you regularly need 30 minutes or more of stimulation, or cannot ejaculate, and it bothers you, it is worth getting advice.
Can antidepressants cause delayed ejaculation?
Yes. SSRIs commonly delay ejaculation. Speak to your prescriber about options, without stopping on your own.
Can delayed ejaculation be treated naturally?
Many men improve by changing masturbation habits, reducing alcohol and porn, managing anxiety and supporting overall health.
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
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
- Mayo Clinic: Delayed ejaculation
- Mayo Clinic: Male hypogonadism
- NIDDK: Symptoms and causes of erectile dysfunction
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.
