Nocturnal Emissions: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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The issue of nocturnal emissions?


One day, while sleeping, I experienced a nocturnal emission.
I wasn't in a deep sleep, but rather in a state between dreaming and waking.
Suddenly, I had the emission, but my erection wasn't very firm; it was somewhat soft.
Recently, I have also had very little sexual desire.
However, hormone tests have shown normal levels.
I'm unsure if there is an underlying issue with my body.

En, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/08

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology


It is normal to experience nocturnal emissions after a prolonged period without sexual activity and ejaculation.
Erectile dysfunction can have various causes, and it is recommended that you consult a urologist for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2020/06/08

More Info


Nocturnal emissions, commonly referred to as "wet dreams," are a normal physiological phenomenon, particularly in males. They occur during sleep and are often associated with erotic dreams, although they can happen without any conscious sexual arousal. The experience you described, where you had a nocturnal emission while being in a semi-conscious state, is not unusual. It is important to understand that these emissions can happen at various levels of arousal and do not necessarily indicate a problem with sexual function or libido.

The fact that you experienced a less firm erection during this event may be concerning, but it is essential to recognize that erections can vary in firmness due to numerous factors, including stress, fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, and even the sleep cycle itself. During sleep, particularly in the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase, the body goes through various physiological changes, including spontaneous erections. However, the quality of these erections can be influenced by your overall health, emotional state, and even the quality of sleep you are getting.

Your mention of a decreased sexual desire is noteworthy. While it is normal for libido to fluctuate due to various life circumstances, prolonged low sexual desire can be indicative of underlying issues. Since you have mentioned that your hormone levels are within the normal range, it might be beneficial to explore other potential factors affecting your libido. These can include psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression, as well as lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and sleep quality.
In some cases, medications or health conditions can also impact sexual desire and function. If you are taking any medications, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if they could be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, or hormonal imbalances (even if tests show normal levels) can sometimes lead to changes in sexual function.

If you are concerned about these symptoms, it would be advisable to have a comprehensive discussion with a healthcare professional. They can provide a more thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly further testing to rule out any underlying conditions.
In summary, nocturnal emissions are a normal part of male physiology and can occur regardless of the firmness of an erection. Variations in sexual desire and function can be influenced by a multitude of factors, and it is essential to consider both physical and psychological aspects. If these concerns persist or worsen, seeking professional advice is the best course of action to ensure your overall health and well-being.

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