What is retrograde ejaculation?
Retrograde ejaculation refers to where instead of sperm shooting forwards when a man orgasms and ejaculates, the sperm shoots backwards into his bladder.
Retrograde ejaculation refers to where instead of sperm shooting forwards when a man orgasms and ejaculates, the sperm shoots backwards. Instead of coming out, sperm may go into a man’s bladder instead.
This problem may occur if a man has had a previous spinal cord injury or is born with a spinal cord problem. It can also happen to men who have other neurological problems including as a consequence of diabetes.
Men who suffer retrograde ejaculation can have children but are likely to need specialist help to retrieve sperm for IUI or IVF treatment.
If you and your partner are having sexual problems and cannot achieve normal ejaculation for any reason, you should immediately seek specialist help if trying to conceive.
Written by Dr Raelia Lew
RANZCOG Board Certified CREI Fertility specialist, Gynaecologist and the Director of Women’s Health Melbourne.
Co-host of the Knocked Up Podcast, Co-founder of Ellechemy intimate wellness solutions. Raelia has a PhD in Preconception Health Promotion and Genetic Screening. Raelia is a leading Australian expert in IVF and egg freezing, pioneering a bespoke model of care.