What Happens to Semen Not Ejaculated During Masturbation - Urology

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Seminal fluid not expelled from the urethra?


Sometimes when I masturbate, I can hold back, but I can still feel that semen is already in the urethra and ready to come out, but it doesn't come out in the end.
Will this semen go back, or will it be expelled later when I urinate?

DD, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/01/08

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


It will not return; once it leaves the seminal vesicles, it will gradually flow into the urethra and be expelled.

Reply Date: 2011/01/08

More Info


When it comes to the physiological processes involved in ejaculation and the fate of semen that is not ejaculated during masturbation, it's important to understand the male reproductive system and how it functions.
During sexual arousal, the body prepares for ejaculation by producing semen, which is a mixture of sperm and seminal fluid. This process is controlled by a complex interplay of hormones and neural signals. When a male reaches the point of orgasm, the body typically expels semen through the urethra in a process called ejaculation. However, there are instances where a male may experience a strong urge to ejaculate but consciously or unconsciously suppresses it, leading to a situation where semen is not expelled.

In the scenario you described, where you feel semen building up in the urethra but do not ejaculate, the body has a few mechanisms to handle this situation. First, the semen does not simply "retreat" back into the body. Instead, it remains in the reproductive tract temporarily. The body has a natural way of managing this excess semen.
1. Reabsorption: The body can reabsorb some of the sperm and seminal fluid. This is a normal physiological process. The sperm that are not ejaculated can be broken down and reabsorbed by the body, particularly in the epididymis, where sperm are stored. This process helps maintain sperm health and prevents the accumulation of old or unused sperm.

2. Urination: If the semen remains in the urethra and is not expelled, it may eventually be flushed out during urination. The urethra serves both reproductive and urinary functions, and any residual fluid can be expelled when you urinate. This is a common occurrence and is not harmful.

3. No Negative Effects: It's important to note that not ejaculating during masturbation does not have negative health effects. The body is designed to handle these situations, and occasional non-ejaculation is a normal part of sexual health.
4. Frequency of Reabsorption: If you frequently find yourself in this situation, it may be worth considering your sexual habits and whether you feel comfortable allowing yourself to ejaculate. Regular ejaculation can help maintain sperm health and may also have psychological benefits, such as reducing sexual tension.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in a situation where you feel semen building up but do not ejaculate, rest assured that your body has mechanisms to manage this. The semen can be reabsorbed or expelled during urination, and this process is entirely natural. If you have concerns about your sexual health or experience discomfort, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in sexual health. They can provide personalized advice and address any specific concerns you may have.

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