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Retrograde ejaculation

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Definition:

Retrograde ejaculation refers to the entry of semen into the bladder instead of going out through the urethra during ejaculation.

Alternative Names:

Ejaculation retrograde

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 (high blood pressure) and some mood-altering drugs.

The condition is relatively uncommon and may occur either partially or completely. The presence of semen in the bladder is harmless. It mixes with 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.

• Review Date: 6/5/2007
• Reviewed By: Marc Greenstein, DO, Urologist, North Jersey Center for Urologic Care, Denville, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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