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What are the causes of retrograde ejaculation?

By Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 09/04/2026

Silvia Azaña, embryologist at inviTRA, explains in this video the main causes of retrograde ejaculation:

When a man reaches orgasm, it is necessary for the bladder sphincter to close to prevent semen from flowing backward into the bladder. However, in men with retrograde ejaculation, there is a problem with the bladder sphincter that does not close properly. As a result, semen does not exit through the urethra to the outside, as it can flow back into the bladder.

These would be the main reasons why retrograde ejaculation can occur in men: surgery on the prostate or bladder; nerve damage caused by diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or a spinal cord injury; and side effects from taking certain medications, for example, for hypertension and depression.

In any case, it is best to consult your doctor if you are taking any of these types of medications or have any of these health issues to reduce the risk of experiencing retrograde ejaculation.

 Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez
Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez
B.Sc., M.Sc.
Embryologist
Graduate in Health Biology from the University of Alcalá and specialized in Clinical Genetics from the same university. Master in Assisted Reproduction by the University of Valencia in collaboration with IVI clinics.
License: 3435-CV
Embryologist. Graduate in Health Biology from the University of Alcalá and specialized in Clinical Genetics from the same university. Master in Assisted Reproduction by the University of Valencia in collaboration with IVI clinics. License: 3435-CV.