To understand semen leakage, we first have to understand semen. When a man ejaculates, the whitish fluid that is released from the penis is called semen. It is made up primarily of seminal fluid, which is produced by the prostate and the seminal vesicles. Seminal vesicles are the small glands located behind the prostate. A small percentage of semen is made up of sperm.
Semen is generally thought to only leave the penis during sex or masturbation. But sometimes, semen can exit the end of a penis without the person being sexually aroused. Semen leakage is a common occurrence during sexual activity. Some conditions may cause semen leakage. Some may have a direct cause that can be treated, while others don’t necessarily require any medical intervention at all. Semen leakage or any other concerns related to your reproductive system should be discussed with your primary doctor or a urologist.
What Causes Semen Leakage?
In addition to conscious sexual arousal, other common causes of semen leakage include:
- Nocturnal emissions
- Medication side effects
- Prostate problems
- Nerve injury
These conditions can also have other symptoms. Here is what you need to know about the other symptoms and how to treat these underlying causes:
Sexual arousal
Leaking semen when aroused or simply having sexual thoughts is normal for many young men. It can be a little messy and uncomfortable, but it does not indicate any sexual problems or other conditions on its own. Some semen may also leak out just before ejaculation or right afterwards.
Another type of fluid can also leak out during sexual arousal. It is called a pre-ejaculatory fluid, also known as “pre-cum.” This fluid often leaks out before ejaculation. Pre-cum is chemically different from semen and can act as a lubricant during intercourse. However, it may still contain sperm, so wearing a condom before any type of sexual activity or contact is recommended.
Since some active sperm can still be released when unexpected, practising the withdrawal method – where you “pull out” your penis from your partner’s vagina before ejaculation – is not a highly effective birth control method. Using the withdrawal method without a condom can also expose you to sexually transmitted infections.
Treatment
Semen leakage or leakage of pre-ejaculatory fluid due to sexual arousal usually requires no treatment. This is both common and normal. On the other hand, if you are experiencing premature ejaculation, this is a different concern. Premature ejaculation involves ejaculating sooner than you and your partner would like or being unable to delay your ejaculation during intercourse. This can occur due to an underlying condition, although most often it’s a psychological reason. Treatments for premature or early ejaculation may include:
- Behavioural changes – Your doctor may suggest that you start masturbating an hour or two before having intercourse.
- Physical therapy and exercise – By doing pelvic therapy and practising Kegels, you can help control your ability to start and stop. This may help delay ejaculation.
- Certain medications – You may use a topical desensitising cream which will reduce stimulation and help to delay orgasm. Your doctor may also prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, which can be effective, especially when used in combination with behavioural and physical therapy.
If you believe you are experiencing premature ejaculation or any type of erectile dysfunction, see your doctor. They can come up with the right treatment plan to meet your needs. Contact us today and book a consultation with one of our of Urologists.
