Semen Residue and Its Impact on Pregnancy Risks - Urology

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Hello Doctor, I am the one with ID 197424 and I have a question! The doctor said that after ejaculation during masturbation, there might be residual semen in the urethra.
If I then go to the bathroom to urinate, and if there is residual semen in the urine, and a woman subsequently uses the toilet, it is unlikely for her to become pregnant.
Why is that? Is it because the residual semen left in the urethra after ejaculation no longer has the ability to fertilize, or is it due to the insufficient amount of residual semen, or is it because the residual semen expelled through urine cannot cause pregnancy?
2.
Doctor, I would also like to ask a question: if I masturbate using my hands and I have a small cut on my hand, since I do not have any sexually transmitted infections, I would not be at risk of contracting an STI from masturbating, right?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: The doctor said that after ejaculation during masturbation, there may be residual semen in the urethra.
If I then go to the bathroom to urinate, and if there is residual semen, and a woman subsequently uses the restroom and comes into contact with the semen in the urine, it is still not possible for her to become pregnant.
Why is that? --> Pregnancy requires certain conditions; the scenario you are imagining is unlikely because the sperm that may remain in the urethra after ejaculation no longer has the capability to fertilize an egg.
--> The ability is nearly gone, and it is also because the residual amount is insufficient to cause pregnancy.
--> Is it true that the extremely small amount of residual semen expelled through urine cannot lead to pregnancy? --> The quantity and quality of the sperm are both insufficient for fertilization.
2.
The doctor also asked a question: if I masturbate using my hands and have a small cut on my hand, since I do not have a sexually transmitted infection, I would not be at risk of contracting an STI from masturbating with a cut on my hand, right? --> Correct, you would not be at risk.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/06/12

More Info


When it comes to understanding the implications of semen residue and its potential impact on pregnancy risks, it is essential to clarify a few key points regarding sperm viability and the mechanics of conception.

Firstly, after ejaculation, some sperm may remain in the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. If a male ejaculates and then urinates, the act of urination can flush out some of the residual sperm. However, the amount of sperm that may remain in the urethra after urination is generally minimal. The primary concern regarding pregnancy is whether viable sperm can reach the female reproductive tract in sufficient quantities to fertilize an egg.

Sperm are designed to survive in the female reproductive tract, where they can remain viable for several days, depending on the conditions. However, once sperm are outside the body, their viability decreases rapidly. Sperm that are left in the urethra after urination may not be capable of fertilizing an egg, particularly if they have been exposed to urine, which is not a conducive environment for sperm survival. Urine is typically not a suitable medium for sperm, and the flushing action of urination further diminishes the likelihood of any remaining sperm being viable.

To address your question about whether touching residual sperm on the hands (especially if there are small cuts) poses a risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the risk is generally low if you do not have an STI. Sperm itself does not transmit infections; rather, it is the pathogens associated with STIs that pose a risk. If you are certain that you do not have any infections, the likelihood of contracting an STI through this method is minimal. However, it is always advisable to practice good hygiene and to be cautious, especially if there are open wounds.

In summary, the likelihood of becoming pregnant from residual sperm in the urethra after urination is very low due to the flushing action of urination and the reduced viability of sperm outside the body. Additionally, the risk of infection from self-stimulation with minor cuts is minimal if you are free from STIs. If you have further concerns about fertility or sexual health, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

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