Many men manage premature ejaculation (PE) with information and support. Some should see a doctor first, and this page explains who and when. It is general information and not a medical assessment. It cannot tell you what is wrong in your own case.
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Signs to see a GP or urologist first
See a doctor, and not only a practitioner or counsellor, if any of these apply:
- PE started suddenly after a period of normal timing (acquired PE). The European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines advise looking for an underlying cause first.
- You have pain, burning when passing urine, pelvic or groin pain, or blood in the urine or semen.
- You have trouble getting or keeping an erection. See PE and erectile dysfunction.
- You take regular prescription medicines, or use alcohol or recreational drugs, and have noticed a change.
- You feel very low, anxious or hopeless about it.
- You want to know whether a medicine is suitable. Only a doctor can decide this.
A general practitioner (GP) is a sensible first step. A urologist is a specialist in the male urinary and reproductive systems, and a GP can refer you. See medical causes of PE.
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What the first appointment involves
A doctor will usually talk with you about your history. They may ask how long it has been happening, whether it happens every time or only sometimes, how long you last, whether erections are affected, your health and medicines, and how it affects you and your relationship. They may examine you and, depending on what you describe, arrange tests. Many men find it easier than expected, because doctors discuss this often. Clinicians do not usually need you to time yourself with a stopwatch.
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Public versus private routes in South Africa
You can speak to a doctor through the public health system or privately, and what is available differs between areas and between medical aid plans. Your first stop is usually a GP, a clinic or your medical aid or hospital plan, and a referral to a urologist can follow if needed.
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What to bring
- A list of medicines, supplements and herbal products you take, with doses if you know them.
- A short note of when it began, how often it happens and anything that changed around then.
- Your questions, written down, so you do not forget them.
- Your medical aid details, if you plan to use them.
- Your partner, if you want them there. This is your choice.
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What a naturopath can and cannot do
A naturopath can offer education, lifestyle guidance and non-medical support, and can talk through what you are experiencing. A naturopath does not diagnose medical causes of PE or prescribe medicines for it, and will refer you to a doctor when a medical check is needed. Our practitioner, George Mulaudzi, works in this way. Read more on his profile page, and see what to expect at a first consultation.
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Questions to ask
- What type of PE might I have, and how can we tell?
- Could anything physical or any medicine I take be involved?
- Do I need any tests?
- What are my options, and what are the benefits and risks of each?
- What should I try first, and how long should I give it?
- When should I come back, and when should I see a specialist?
You can also read the main guide to PE or try the private self-check before your visit.