Epididymitis and Ejaculation Issues: A Urology Perspective - Urology

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Epididymitis & Anejaculation


Hello Doctor, four weeks ago, I visited a urologist due to swelling and pain in my right testicle.
The doctor diagnosed me with epididymitis, and I have been on a continuous course of antibiotics for four weeks.
After starting the antibiotics, the pain has significantly improved, but I still experience occasional discomfort.
Additionally, during the treatment, I couldn't help but engage in sexual activity 1-2 times.
Will this exacerbate my condition?
Furthermore, for about six months, I've noticed something unusual with my ejaculation.
I reach orgasm but do not ejaculate, and only 1-2 times have I had a small amount of semen.
Is this purely a psychological issue? Is there a connection between this and the epididymitis? I apologize for the many questions, and I appreciate your help.

Xiao Tian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/01/20

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, epididymitis.
Ejaculation will not increase the risk of infection or lead to treatment failure.
Unilateral epididymitis should not result in the absence of semen during ejaculation.
Further examination is needed to check for issues such as obstruction of the ejaculatory duct.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Responses from the internet should only be used as a reference; it is still necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/01/20

More Info


Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, often caused by bacterial infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Your experience of right-sided testicular swelling and pain, which improved with antibiotic treatment, is consistent with this diagnosis. However, the persistence of pain, even after treatment, can be concerning and warrants further evaluation.

Regarding your question about engaging in sexual activity during treatment, it is generally advisable to avoid sexual intercourse while being treated for epididymitis. Engaging in sexual activity can potentially exacerbate the inflammation and prolong recovery. Additionally, if the underlying cause of your epididymitis is an STI, sexual activity could risk transmitting the infection to a partner or reinfecting yourself.

As for your ejaculation issues, where you experience orgasm without ejaculation, this condition is known as "dry orgasm." It can occur for various reasons, including psychological factors, nerve damage, or as a side effect of medications. In the context of epididymitis, it is possible that the inflammation and pain could contribute to changes in sexual function, including ejaculation. The stress and anxiety associated with your condition may also play a significant role in this issue.

It is essential to consider that while psychological factors can influence sexual function, the physical aspects of your condition should not be overlooked. The inflammation of the epididymis may affect the normal functioning of the reproductive system, potentially leading to issues with ejaculation.
If you have been experiencing these symptoms for six months, it is crucial to discuss them with your urologist. They may recommend further testing, such as a semen analysis, to assess your reproductive health and determine if there are any underlying issues contributing to your symptoms.
In summary, while it is possible that psychological factors are at play in your ejaculation issues, the connection to your epididymitis cannot be ruled out. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about all your symptoms and concerns. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options to address both your epididymitis and any sexual function issues you may be experiencing.
In the meantime, consider the following recommendations:
1. Avoid Sexual Activity: Refrain from sexual intercourse until you have fully recovered and have consulted with your doctor.

2. Follow Up with Your Urologist: Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss your ongoing pain and ejaculation issues.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including pain levels and ejaculation patterns, to provide your doctor with detailed information.

4. Consider Psychological Support: If anxiety or stress is contributing to your symptoms, consider speaking with a mental health professional who specializes in sexual health.

By taking these steps, you can work towards a better understanding of your condition and find appropriate solutions to improve your overall health and well-being.

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