Alternative Names
Ejaculation retrograde
Definition of Retrograde ejaculation
Retrograde ejaculation refers to the entry of semen into the bladder instead of going out through the urethra during ejaculation.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Retrograde ejaculation may be caused by prior prostate or urethral surgery, , some medications, including some drugs used to treat (high blood pressure) and some mood-altering drugs. The main reason is that the bladder neck does not close off so semen goes backwards into the bladder rather than forward out of the penis.
Signs and tests
A performed on a urine specimen that is obtained shortly after ejaculation will reveal a large amount of sperm in the urine.
Treatment
If retrograde ejaculation is caused by drugs, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking such drug. This can make the problem go away.
Expectations (prognosis)
If retrograde ejaculation is caused by medications, discontinuation of the medication often restores normal ejaculation. If retrograde ejaculation is caused by surgery or diabetes, it is often not correctable.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/22/2009
