Retrograde ejaculation is a male reproductive condition in which semen travels backward into the bladder during orgasm, instead of being expelled through the urethra. While the experience of orgasm may feel normal, the lack of outward ejaculation can lead to fertility challenges and significant emotional distress. At AINU Andrology, part of the Asian Institute of Nephrology & Urology (AINU), patients receive expert evaluation and individually tailored treatment for this complex issue.
What Causes Retrograde Ejaculation?
There are several possible triggers for retrograde ejaculation, and identifying the underlying cause is vital for effective treatment. Common causes include:
- Surgery or medical treatment: Procedures involving the prostate, bladder neck, or urethra can damage the nerves or muscles that normally direct semen outward.
- Nerve damage: Conditions such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis can impair the nerves that control the closure of the bladder neck.
- Medication: Some medications used to treat blood pressure, enlarged prostate, or psychiatric disorders may interfere with muscle contraction during ejaculation.
- Idiopathic causes: Sometimes, no clear cause is found, and the condition develops without a well-defined trigger.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Because retrograde ejaculation often isn’t painful, many men do not realize something is wrong until they try to conceive. Typical symptoms include:
- Very little or no semen visible at ejaculation
- Cloudy or discolored urine after orgasm, indicating semen has entered the bladder
- Fertility issues, with a partner unable to conceive despite regular intercourse
Because these symptoms can easily go unnoticed, AINU Andrology recommends evaluation when fertility becomes a concern or if there is a history of related surgery or medication use.
How AINU Andrology Diagnoses the Condition
At AINU Andrology, diagnosis starts with a thorough medical review. The team will take a detailed history, including any past surgeries, medications, and underlying disorders. A physical examination is followed by a post-ejaculatory urine test, which checks for the presence of sperm in the bladder. This test provides key evidence that confirms retrograde flow and helps guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options Provided by AINU
Andrology Treatment at AINU is highly personalized, based on the patient’s goals — particularly whether fertility is desired or if improving ejaculatory function is the primary concern. Key therapies include:
- Medication: Drugs such as alpha-agonists can help tighten the bladder neck muscles so that semen is directed outward. Adjusting or changing problematic medications may also be part of the plan.
- Assisted reproductive techniques: For men whose primary concern is fertility, sperm retrieved from post-ejaculatory urine can be used for techniques like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). This allows couples to conceive even when ejaculation is not normal.
- Underlying condition management: If nerve disease (e.g., due to diabetes) or prior surgery is a factor, AINU’s team will work on the root problem. Optimizing glycemic control or revisiting surgical options can sometimes improve ejaculation.
Why Patients Trust AINU Andrology
AINU Andrology stands out for its deep expertise in male reproductive health. Their urology and microsurgery specialists are skilled in diagnosing and treating sexual health concerns in a sensitive and non-judgmental manner. The institute leverages its broader AINU infrastructure to offer advanced diagnostics and multidisciplinary support, ensuring patients don’t just receive medical advice — they receive reassurance and long-term follow-up.
Learn more on the official AINU Andrology page: https://ainuandrology.com/retrograde-ejaculation
