Retrograde ejaculation

In retrograde ejaculation, the bladder neck does not close during orgasm, so semen passes into the bladder. Signs are a very small or absent ejaculate with cloudy urine afterwards. Causes include diabetes, spinal injury, prostate surgery and some medicines. It is confirmed by examining urine after ejaculation, and sperm can often be recovered from the urine for treatment.

Also known as: dry orgasm, backwards ejaculation

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.