7 Causes of Semen Not Coming Out and How to Overcome It

Normally, when a man ejaculates, semen containing sperm is released. However, in some cases, men experience ejaculation without semen exiting through the penis.
This condition is called dry orgasm or orgasmic anejaculation. For men experiencing this, it can cause worry, as dry orgasm means reaching climax during sexual activity without semen being discharged. Dry orgasm can occur temporarily or become permanent, depending on the underlying cause.
What Causes Semen Not to Come Out?
The absence of semen during ejaculation can be caused by several factors, such as:
1. Delayed Ejaculation
One cause of dry orgasm is delayed ejaculation (also known as impaired ejaculation). This is a common medical condition in men where a longer period of sexual stimulation is required to achieve ejaculation, or in some cases, ejaculation cannot be achieved at all.
For some men, delayed ejaculation occurs occasionally, while for others it can be lifelong. Causes may include:
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Depression
Anxiety
Neuropathy (nerve disorders)
Side effects of certain medications
Medication-related side effects usually develop over time and may eventually lead to complete absence of semen during ejaculation.
Although not life-threatening, delayed ejaculation can lead to stress, impacting sexual satisfaction and relationship harmony.
2. Blocked Sperm Ducts
Another cause is blockage in the sperm ducts, often due to previous infections or prostate disorders—not typical dirt buildup.
Treatment: Surgical intervention may be required to clear the obstruction.
3. Retrograde Ejaculation
Definition: A condition where semen flows backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the penis during ejaculation.
Cause: Dysfunction of the bladder neck muscles, preventing proper closure during ejaculation, allowing semen to enter the bladder.
Signs: Urine appears cloudy or thicker than usual because it contains semen.
Risk: While not dangerous, untreated retrograde ejaculation can lead to male infertility.
4. Low Testosterone Levels (Hypogonadism)
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual function. When the body cannot produce sufficient testosterone, the condition is called hypogonadism, leading to drastically reduced or absent sperm production.
Additional symptoms: Erectile dysfunction or inability to maintain an erection for long.
5. Post-Prostate Surgery
Prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia / BPH) is often treated with surgery, usually involving laser techniques to shrink or remove excess tissue.
Possible side effect: Dry orgasm or absence of semen during ejaculation. In cases involving nerve damage, the condition may become permanent.
6. Nerve and Ejaculatory Tissue Damage
Ejaculation relies on proper nerve function. Nerve damage may result from:
Diabetes
Bladder removal surgery
Multiple sclerosis
Spinal cord injury
Post-surgical effects (e.g., retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND), transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP), transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT), or transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)).
Nerve damage is often irreversible, making recovery of normal ejaculation unlikely.
7. Absence of Semen and Sperm Formation
Disorders in sperm production may result from:
Genetic abnormalities of the reproductive system (non-obstructive azoospermia)
Radiation exposure (e.g., cancer treatment)
Prognosis: Genetic abnormalities are typically untreatable, while radiation effects may improve over time after therapy completion.
How to Overcome Semen Not Coming Out?
Management depends on the underlying cause:
Medical or surgical treatment for cases like duct obstruction or post-surgical complications
Lifestyle improvements:
Eat foods rich in vitamin C
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Ensure adequate sleep and regular exercise
If this condition disrupts sexual satisfaction or relationship harmony, seek professional consultation with a doctor or urologist.
Source:
Kam, J., et al. (2016). Retrograde Ejaculation: A Rare Presenting Symptom of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. Urol Case Rep, 10:9–10.
Brezina, PR., et al. (2012). Effects of Pharmaceutical Medications on Male Fertility. J Reprod Infertil, 13(1):3–11.
MedlinePlus. Hypogonadism.
Abdel-Hamid, IA., Ali, OI. (2017). Delayed Ejaculation: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. World J Mens Health, 36(1):22–40.
Van Kampen, M., Geraerts, I. (2015). Male Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions and Evidence-Based Physical Therapy.
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