During an orgasm, semen enters the bladder instead of being ejaculated out through the urethra, which results in retrograde ejaculation. The causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of retrograde ejaculation are explored here. It can affect male fertility and sexual function.
Causes
Different factors can interfere with the normal function of the bladder neck and muscles controlling ejaculation, resulting in retrograde ejaculation. Common causes include:
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The nerves or muscles involved in ejaculation may be damaged during certain surgical procedures, such as prostate surgery, bladder neck surgery, or surgery to treat urinary tract conditions.
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Some medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure, depression, or prostate enlargement, can affect ejaculation by relaxing bladder neck muscles.
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Diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can disrupt the normal ejaculation process and cause retrograde ejaculation.
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Retrograde ejaculation is more likely to occur as men age due to changes in the prostate and bladder neck muscles.
Symptoms
Retrograde ejaculation may cause the following symptoms:
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A dry orgasm produces little to no semen, with the semen entering the bladder instead.
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Due to the presence of semen, urine may appear cloudy or frothy.
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Retrograde ejaculation can cause infertility by preventing sperm from being expelled from the body during intercourse. As a result, there is less or no sperm in the ejaculate.
Diagnosis
Medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests are typically used to diagnose retrograde ejaculation.
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Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications or surgeries you have had.
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In order to assess the function of the genital organs and identify any underlying conditions, a physical examination may be performed.
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Analyzing a urine sample collected after ejaculation can confirm the presence of semen, indicating retrograde ejaculation.
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A specialized urine test may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of retrograde ejaculation by examining urine collected after ejaculation for sperm.
Treatment
Retrograde ejaculation can be treated according to the underlying cause, including:
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Some medications, such as alpha-adrenergic agonists, can improve bladder neck function and reduce retrograde ejaculation.
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Medication changes: If retrograde ejaculation is caused by medications, adjusting or discontinuing the offending medications may help restore normal ejaculation.
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In order to conceive, individuals may use assisted reproductive techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to collect sperm from the urine or bladder and artificially inseminate the female partner.
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In some cases, surgery can be performed to repair or reconstruct the bladder neck or to address underlying anatomical issues contributing to retrograde ejaculation.
Prevention
Retrograde ejaculation can be prevented by:
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When possible, avoid medications that can cause retrograde ejaculation or discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider.
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If you experience symptoms of retrograde ejaculation, seek medical attention immediately to identify and address any underlying causes.
