Retrograde ejaculation

Alternative names:

ejaculation retrograde

Definition:

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, diabetes, some medications, including some drugs used to treat hypertension and some mood altering drugs. The condition is relatively uncommon and may occur either partially or completely. The presence of semen into the bladder is harmless; it mixes into the urine and leaves the body with normal urination. Men with diabetes and those who have had genitourinary tract surgery are at increased risk of developing the condition.