Ejaculation: Is It Complete Without Release? - Urology

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Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
Perhaps I am overthinking this, but I would like to ask: if I have reached orgasm but have not ejaculated, and there is residual semen in the urethra (even though some pre-ejaculatory fluid has leaked from the glans), does this still count as ejaculation? Additionally, could long-term masturbation without ejaculation be harmful to the prostate? Thank you.

Xiao Hei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/04/10

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, actually, if there is a little moisture and some semen present, sperm may still exist.
Whether this counts as ejaculation is subjective; some people believe that even a little counts, while others think that a small amount does not qualify.
Personally, I believe that whether or not ejaculation occurs is not very significant and does not cause harm to the prostate.
Note: Some people use this method for contraception, but it is still possible to conceive.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.

Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan,
Hsu Wei-Kai

Reply Date: 2008/04/10

More Info


Understanding ejaculation and its implications is an important topic, especially for those concerned about sexual health and prostate health. To clarify, ejaculation is defined as the release of semen from the male reproductive system, typically through the urethra during orgasm. However, it is possible to experience orgasm without ejaculation, a phenomenon known as "dry orgasm." This can occur for various reasons, including certain medical conditions, medications, or simply individual physiological differences.

In your case, if you have reached orgasm but did not release semen, it would not be classified as complete ejaculation. The presence of some fluid, such as pre-ejaculatory fluid (often referred to as "pre-cum"), can occur, which may contain sperm, but this does not equate to full ejaculation. The fluid that may have leaked from the glans (the tip of the penis) could be a combination of pre-ejaculatory fluid and any residual semen that may have been present in the urethra.
Regarding your concern about long-term masturbation without ejaculation and its effects on prostate health, current research suggests that regular ejaculation may have protective benefits for prostate health. Some studies indicate that frequent ejaculation may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but it is hypothesized that regular ejaculation may help clear out potentially harmful substances from the prostate and reduce inflammation.

However, it is essential to note that the relationship between ejaculation frequency and prostate health is still being studied, and individual experiences may vary. Some men may find that they can engage in frequent masturbation without ejaculation without any adverse effects, while others may experience discomfort or other issues.

If you are concerned about your sexual health or prostate health, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. Additionally, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as pain during urination, persistent discomfort, or changes in sexual function, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

In summary, while reaching orgasm without ejaculation does not constitute complete ejaculation, it is a normal occurrence for some individuals. Long-term masturbation without ejaculation may not necessarily harm the prostate, but regular ejaculation may offer some protective benefits. If you have ongoing concerns, consulting a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

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