Gatland added that he understands “the pressures of international rugby with performances and results”.
“We can only work as hard as we have done. I’m aware of the pressure and that decisions could be made outside of my control,” he continued.
“We’ve just asked for a little bit of time. Whether we get that time, we’ll have to wait and see.”
Following the record 52-20 defeat against Australia last Sunday, Gatland said he had a conversation with Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) chair Richard Collier-Keywood and executive director of rugby Nigel Walker in the Principality Stadium changing rooms.
He also stated he would speak to his family when considering his future.
But three days on from the Australia mauling, Gatland said he has had no indication from anybody that he would not be in charge beyond the upcoming game against the Springboks.
Gatland has made four personnel changes for South Africa, with Sam Costelow recalled at fly-half.