Premature ejaculation
What causes premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation is the most common male sexual concern, yet few men understand why it happens. Knowing what causes premature ejaculation is the first step to better control.
In short: Premature ejaculation is usually caused by a mix of factors: anxiety and performance pressure, high penile sensitivity, how the brain regulates serotonin, learned habits such as rushing, relationship stress and, less often, prostate inflammation, thyroid problems or erection difficulties. Lifelong PE is thought to have a stronger biological basis; acquired PE more often has a trigger that can be addressed.
Lifelong vs acquired PE
Lifelong PE has been present since the first sexual experiences. Acquired PE develops after a period of normal control. See acquired premature ejaculation.
Psychological causes
Anxiety and performance pressure
Worry speeds up the ejaculation reflex. See can stress cause premature ejaculation.
Learned habits
Rushing during early sexual experiences or masturbation can train the body to finish quickly. Read can masturbation cause premature ejaculation.
Relationship issues
Tension or unresolved conflict can play a part.
Low confidence or body image
Worry about size or performance adds pressure.
Physical causes
Serotonin regulation
Brain chemistry influences how quickly the ejaculation reflex is triggered.
Penile sensitivity
Some men have higher sensitivity. See how to reduce penile sensitivity.
Erection difficulties
Men worried about losing an erection may rush. Read premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
Prostate inflammation
Prostatitis can cause faster, sometimes painful ejaculation. See prostatitis natural remedies.
Thyroid problems
An overactive thyroid has been linked to PE.
What helps
- Premature ejaculation exercises
- The squeeze technique
- Breathing techniques
- Reducing stress and talking with your partner
Support
Our naturopaths look at the full picture and build a personalised natural plan for control and confidence.
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 mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main cause of premature ejaculation?
There is rarely one cause. Anxiety, sensitivity, brain chemistry and learned habits often combine.
Is premature ejaculation psychological or physical?
Often both. Lifelong PE has a stronger biological link, while acquired PE more often has a psychological or medical trigger.
Can premature ejaculation be caused by a medical condition?
Yes. Prostate inflammation, thyroid problems and erection difficulties can contribute.
Can premature ejaculation improve?
Yes. Techniques, pelvic floor training and addressing triggers help most men gain more control.
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.
