When it comes to sexual health, many topics remain shrouded in mystery or are simply not discussed often. One such topic is retrograde ejaculation, a condition unknown to a lot of men. Ironically, this is a condition that only men can experience.

Before we get to retrograde ejaculation, here’s a quick refresher on the process of ejaculation: In simple terms, ejaculation typically involves the release of semen through the urethra during orgasm. This process is normally a one-way street, with semen moving forward and exiting the penis. This is possible because of a small circular muscle near the bladder’s entrance which acts like a gatekeeper, ensuring that semen doesn’t enter the bladder.

What is it?

In the case of retrograde ejaculation, this muscle doesn’t perform its job as expected. Instead of proceeding outward, some or all of the semen takes a detour, flowing backward into the bladder during ejaculation. As a result, less semen is ejaculated from the penis.

While this condition isn’t painful, retrograde ejaculation could lead to infertility, so it pays to know how to spot it and avoid its causes.

What are its symptoms?

Retrograde ejaculation doesn’t interfere with your capacity to achieve an erection or experience an orgasm. However, it alters the normal flow of ejaculation. Signs and indications of retrograde ejaculation include the following:

• Experiencing orgasms where minimal or no semen is discharged from your penis, resulting in “dry” orgasms.
• Producing “cloudy” urine. (This is caused by semen mixing with what you secrete when peeing.)
• Difficulties in achieving pregnancy with a female partner.

If you notice any of these things, you might want to visit a doctor immediately. 

What are its causes?

Retrograde ejaculation can stem from various potential causes, most of which are medical in nature.

• Surgical procedures that may damage the muscles or nerves responsible for bladder control, particularly prostate, lower spine, bladder-related, and pelvic surgeries.
• Nerve damage often caused by underlying medical conditions. This is commonly observed in men with multiple sclerosis or those with poorly controlled, long-term diabetes.
• Certain medications can also lead to retrograde ejaculation as a side effect, specifically…
  • Drugs used to alleviate symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland, such as tamsulosin (Flomax), alfuzosin (Uroxatral), or terazosin (Cardura).
  • Certain antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), among others.
  • Medications for the management of psychiatric conditions, like chlorpromazine (Thorazine), thioridazine (Mellaril), and risperidone (Risperdal). 

It’s essential for individuals experiencing retrograde ejaculation to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored guidance on managing this condition effectively.

How do we treat it?

When nerve damage is the underlying cause of retrograde ejaculation, your doctor may recommend medications as a treatment option. However, it’s crucial to note that the medications typically prescribed for this condition may have side effects, including increased blood pressure and a faster heart rate. Therefore, they may not be suitable for individuals with a history of heart disease or hypertension.

Common drugs that are occasionally used to address retrograde ejaculation include:

• Imipramine, an antidepressant that has shown potential in managing retrograde ejaculation and even bed-wetting in children.
• Midodrine, which is primarily prescribed to combat low blood pressure but has also demonstrated benefits in aiding semen transport within the body, addressing issues related to retrograde ejaculation.
• Certain antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine and brompheniramine have been explored for their potential to alleviate retrograde ejaculation, although their primary use is for allergy management.
• Specific decongestants like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine, typically used as decongestants, may also play a role in mitigating retrograde ejaculation.

Be sure to consult a healthcare provider to know which meds may be best for you.

In the realm of sexual health, awareness and understanding can make all the difference. Retrograde ejaculation may be a lesser-known condition, but knowing its signs, causes, and potential treatments can empower you to take charge of your well-being. 

If you ever find yourself on this unexpected detour, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. Your health matters, and there are ways to navigate this journey effectively. With the right know-how, you’ll be ready to #DoItRight!

Sources:

• Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (n.d.). Retrograde ejaculation. Mayo Clinic.
  https://mayocl.in/3rz2E6P
• Retrograde ejaculation. Harvard Health. (2022, February 28).
  https://bit.ly/3teIijD
• WebMD. (n.d.). Retrograde ejaculation: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. WebMD. https://bit.ly/46xlKZK
• Image by jcomp on Freepik