Retrograde ejaculation.
Retrograde ejaculation is a sexual condition in which  part or the total amount of a man's semen is released into the bladder, rather than coming through the penis in orgasmic climax.
Retrograde ejaculation occurs, when the muscle that is referred to as internal sphincter, does not function properly. Normally, during ejaculation, sphincter should be automatically activated by the peripheral nervous system and close the relevant bladder's opening, in order to prevent any semen insertion into the organ. In retrograde ejaculation, the semen mixes with urine in the bladder and eventually, it is excreted when urination happens. Retrograde ejaculation does not cause any complications, apart from the ones mentioned below. A man experiencing retrograde ejaculation can still reach orgasm and for a while, the problem may remain unnoticed. The condition does not affect the couple's sexual relations and activity. However, the aftermath of retrograde ejaculation is the man's impairment of fertility or complete infertility, since sperm cannot be readily released into the female's vagina during an intercourse.
Causes of retrograde ejaculation.
The most common cause of retrograde ejaculation is diabetes mellitus. If the blood glucose level control is poor, soon or later it will lead to diabetic neuropathy which, in turn, involves the damage of the nerves that innervate the internal sphincter. As it has been mentioned already, the resulted muscle dysfunction is associated with retrograde ejaculation.
Other causes that may lead to nerve damage which can lead to retrograde ejaculation include prostate, urethra or bladder surgery and multiple sclerosis. Certain medications, such as anti-hypertension drugs or agents used for psychotherapy may interfere and contribute to the onset of retrograde ejaculation symptoms.
Symptoms and signs of retrograde ejaculation.
A male, suffering from retrograde ejaculation may realize that small or no amount of sperm is discharged during ejaculation or may become aware of the condition if fertility problems arise. The macroscopic appearance of the urine may be cloudy. Urinalysis of a sample taken just after ejaculation will reveal the existence of semen.
Treatment and management of retrograde ejaculation.
Medical or surgical treatment for overactive or neurogenic bladder may improve the tone of the relevant sphincter muscle, especially if the condition is present due to diabetes.
If necessary, the semen can be separated and retrieved from the first urine sample after ejaculation. This requires a certain procedure and the sperm can be used for contrived insemination and impregnation. |
