Patient's question:
I recently don't know what's going on, my lower body is very uncomfortable, and I'm not getting morning erections anymore. What's the difference between retrograde ejaculation and anejaculation?Doctor's answer:
Retrograde ejaculation and anejaculation are both manifestations of male sexual dysfunction, with a common feature being the absence of semen discharge from the urethra during intercourse. However, they differ fundamentally in symptoms, etiology, and pathophysiology.Retrograde ejaculation can achieve orgasm and the sensation of ejaculation, but the semen is instead redirected backward into the bladder. This may occur due to conditions such as diabetes, spinal cord injury, neurogenic bladder or urethral stricture, or after transurethral resection of the prostate. Medications like reserpine or guanethidine may also cause retrograde ejaculation.
Anejaculation, also known as impaired ejaculation, refers to the inability to ejaculate and the absence of sexual climax during intercourse. Primary anejaculation means the male has never ejaculated into a partner's vagina. Secondary anejaculation occurs when a man previously could ejaculate in the vagina but later loses the ability. Absolute anejaculation means the inability to ejaculate during both intercourse and non-intercourse sexual activities (e.g., masturbation). Selective anejaculation is when a man cannot ejaculate during intercourse but can do so through non-intercourse methods (e.g., masturbation). Incidental anejaculation refers to temporary, short-term, or occasional inability to ejaculate, rather than a persistent condition.
Most cases of anejaculation are caused by psychological factors, making psychological therapy essential for treatment.