There is a condition known as a dry orgasm, medically known as retrograde ejaculation. This occurs when the ejaculate doesn’t exist via the penis but is instead pushed into the bladder. It’s common for it to be found when fertility tests are being performed. Retrograde ejaculation is a potential side-effect of receiving certain treatments for prostate health concerns. As a somewhat common condition, if you’re not trying to conceive, you may be wondering if you should be worried about it.

What Causes Retrograde Ejaculation, And Should I Worry?

There are many potential causes for retrograde ejaculation. Among them are benign prostatic hyperplasia, diabetes, and certain medications. Medications taken for depression and high blood pressure are common culprits. Those who may experience this condition are those who:

• Have undergone urethra or prostate surgery
• Have diabetes or multiple sclerosis.
• Have had surgery on, or have injured, their spinal cord
• Have had surgery on their rectum or colon
• Have deformities in their urethra
• Are taking certain medications

These have been identified as the most frequent cause of retrograde ejaculation. If you’re wondering if you are experiencing this condition, look for the following symptoms:

• Low levels of semen produced when ejaculating
• Your urine is cloudy following an orgasm
• You’re struggling with fertility issues

The physical cause of retrograde ejaculation occurs with the bladder sphincter. This sphincter closes to ensure that semen can leave the body without combining it with urine. When this sphincter is malfunctioning, this area, known as the bladder neck, remains open. This allows the ejaculate to back up into the bladder rather than exiting the body. This condition is neither harmful nor painful. As a result, your provider may indicate there’s no need for treatment if you’re not trying to conceive.

In cases where it’s determined that treatment is appropriate or desired, it will often start with the prescription of a pharmaceutical approach such as imipramine. Antihistamines like chlorpheniramine or pseudoephedrine may also be prescribed. This condition most often goes away with treatment. Treatment can also include altering your current medications. With sources like medical conditions, surgery, and medications, retrograde ejaculation isn’t an uncommon condition. In most cases, no treatment is required unless the patient is trying to conceive. 

Another potential cause of retrograde ejaculation is an enlarged prostate. The majority of enlarged prostate cases are the result of a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. This condition is a non-cancerous case of enlargement of the prostate common in aging men. Treatments for this condition will reduce potential symptoms, including retrograde ejaculation.

Speak To Your Specialist To Learn More

If you’re experiencing symptoms of retrograde ejaculation, it’s time to reach out to your prostate specialist. They’ll proceed to perform a full examination and provide consultation on what the next steps you take should be. Treatment of this condition is often simple and doesn’t require surgery. As enlargement of the prostate can be a potential cause, prostate cancer can be involved in rare cases. Don’t take chances with your health; get seen if you have symptoms.