Dry Orgasm: What Is it and Why Does it Happen?

Although dry orgasm doesn't pose any health risks, it can affect fertility and self-esteem and, therefore, a person's sex life.
Dry Orgasm: What Is it and Why Does it Happen?

Last update: 27 May, 2022

After orgasm, men are supposed to have an anterograde ejaculation with a consequent release of semen. When this doesn’t occur or not enough semen is released, this is a sign of dry orgasm.

Have you ever orgasmed without ejaculating?

If so, don’t worry. This is known as a dry orgasm, or retrograde ejaculation. It happens to some people for different reasons. However, you should consult your doctor about it.

In this article, you’ll understand why.

Should I Worry if I Have a Dry Orgasm?

A man who's suffering from retrograde eyaculation.

With the help of your doctor, you can determine the cause of your retrograde ejaculation. In principle, you shouldn’t worry if you experience a dry orgasm. Overall, they pose no health risks. Plus, you can still enjoy sex even without ejaculating semen after you climax.

However, there are a number of reasons why this may be happening to you:

  • Surgeries: If you’ve had testicular cancer or have undergone a prostatectomy, it’s possible that your bladder neck is damaged. This may preclude the output of semen after an orgasm.
  • Bladder neck incompetence: This is a congenital anatomical alteration. In involves a closure of the bladder neck that prevents ejaculation.
  • Injuries and neuropathies: If your marrow is damaged or you suffer from a disease such as sclerosis, you may experience dry orgasm.
  • Medication and drugs: If you frequently drink alcohol or use drugs, retrograde ejaculation may happen. Also, some antidepressants and antipsychotics may also cause dry orgasm.

In some cases, the solution is clear. For example, if a medication you’re taking is causing dry orgasms, your doctor may prescribe another one. However, the situation is different in cases of injuries and neuropathies.

This article may interest you: 7 Sex Games to Try Out With Your Partner

Treatment Options for Retrograde Ejaculation

First of all, if your bladder neck is damaged, your doctor may propose surgery to repair it. In other circumstances, s/he may prescribe medication to help with the condition. However, if your drug consumption is the cause, quitting is the best option.

The treatment will always depend on the causes and how problematic this condition is for you.

Trouble Conceiving

A couple who are having trouble conceiving.

Dry orgasm reduces male fertility. Thus, dry orgasm reduces the chances of having a baby. If you want a child, your doctor will try to resolve this situation. However, there is an alternative that usually yields good results: assisted reproduction.

This consists of extracting sperm and processing it in a lab. Later, they inseminate the woman. This allows the sperm to fertilize an egg. In many cases, before this, doctors perform ovarian stimulation to increase the chances of success.

This article may interest you: Tips for How to Improve Male Fertility

Self-esteem Issues

A couple with sex problems.

In many cases, dry orgasm leads to insecurity and lack of self-esteem. Unfortunately, it can also lead to anxiety if you’re unsure of what’s happening to you.

If dry orgasm is affecting your sex life, don’t hesitate to see a professional. After all, this condition may embarrass you. This can even lead to erectile dysfunction.

If you find yourself in this situation, see your doctor. That way, they can discover the reasons why you’re experiencing retrograde ejaculation. Also, don’t hesitate to follow their recommendations or ask them for suggestions.

If you want to have children, your doctor can share other alternatives with you.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.



This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.