Men Should See A Doctor If They Have This Type Of Orgasm

For people with penises, orgasm typically involves the ejection of semen from the penis during sexual climax. During this process, the bladder neck muscle constricts so ejaculate can move seamlessly from the prostate into the urethra without getting misdirected into the bladder, Mayo Clinic experts explain. However, this muscle doesn't always contract as it should. If you've ever heard the term "Mercury retrograde," the concept is somewhat similar. While planetary retrograde refers to an optical illusion that makes Mercury look as if it's moving in reverse, in cases of retrograde ejaculation, semen moves backward into the bladder rather than being expelled from the penis.

Researchers from a 2020 scientific analysis published in the American Journal of Men's Health highlight excerpts from existing sources stating that retrograde ejaculation is not usually painful and does not impact sexual pleasure or orgasm so people can learn to adjust comfortably to the condition. The researchers point out, however, that statements such as these can minimize the patient's experience and potentially dissuade a person from seeking medical treatment. Here's why individuals experiencing retrograde ejaculation may want to consider a visit to their doctor.

Also referred to as "dry orgasms," the discharge of semen may be minimal or completely absent during ejaculation (per Mayo Clinic). People experiencing retrograde ejaculation may also find that their urine appears cloudy following orgasm. The condition has been linked with male infertility, and individuals who are having difficulty conceiving are encouraged to reach out to their healthcare provider for treatment.

Another reason that people experiencing retrograde ejaculation are encouraged to see their doctor is because it may potentially be related to an underlying health issue. Such conditions include multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or diabetes. 2017 research published in Urology Case Reports outlines the case of a 19-year-old male whose ejaculate volume continuously decreased over the course of two weeks until none was present at all. The patient's diagnosis of retrograde ejaculation was found to be in relation to type 1 diabetes. The researchers point out, however, that diabetes-related retrograde ejaculation often manifests later on. It is rarely the primary symptom of the disease.

Because retrograde ejaculation has also been noted as a side effect of certain medications, consider talking with your physician about adjusting or potentially changing your prescriptions. Antihypertensive drugs, medications for enlarged prostate treatment, and antidepressants are a few different types of drugs that may interfere with the bladder neck muscle's ability to tighten during ejaculation (per Mayo Clinic). 

The same is true for certain surgical procedures, including bladder neck surgery or prostate surgery (also known as a "prostatectomy"). Some people diagnosed with an enlarged prostate, also known as "benign prostatic hyperplasia," undergo this surgical procedure as treatment for the condition (per American Journal of Men's Health).

Mental health is equally as important as one's physical, sexual, and reproductive health. Therefore, if you're experiencing symptoms of depression or other signs of psychological distress related to retrograde ejaculation or any other sexual health issues, consider speaking with a mental health counselor. Some counselors specialize in areas related to sexual functioning, intimacy, and more.