Urethritis: Inability to Ejaculate After Medication - Urology

Share to:

Suspected urethritis, unable to ejaculate during masturbation?


Hello, a couple of weeks ago, I woke up one morning feeling some pain in my urethra (the front part was painful, but my lower abdomen felt fine).
Then, last Wednesday, I went to the hospital to see a doctor, who diagnosed me with urethritis (I had a urinalysis and will return on the 7th or 8th to check the results).
The doctor prescribed me medication, but since I started taking the medication on Wednesday, I have been unable to ejaculate during masturbation.
I can achieve an erection, but it lacks firmness.
I feel the urge to ejaculate, but it seems to get stuck in the middle and cannot be released.
Before seeing the doctor, even though I had urethral pain, my ejaculation was normal.
Could this be related to the medication (Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets, Urokinase Tablets, Loperamide Tablets, and Urethral Capsules)? Or could it be a bacterial infection causing a narrowing of the urethra that prevents ejaculation? Since I started the medication, I have experienced very little stinging in the urethra, but my urine output has significantly decreased, and I am unable to ejaculate.
What could be happening?

E, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/06

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, many medications can cause side effects that lead to urinary difficulties.
Additionally, urethritis can also result in issues with urination.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can further discuss and research the matter.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/07/06

More Info


Urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra, can be a distressing condition, particularly when it leads to complications such as difficulty with ejaculation. Your symptoms, including the inability to ejaculate and reduced urinary output after starting medication, warrant careful consideration.

First, it’s important to understand that medications prescribed for urethritis, such as the ones you mentioned (Sparfloxacin, Urief, and others), can have side effects that may impact sexual function. For instance, Urief (silodosin) is known to cause retrograde ejaculation, which is when semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis during ejaculation. This could explain your sensation of wanting to ejaculate but being unable to do so. Retrograde ejaculation is generally not harmful, but it can be concerning for those who wish to conceive, as it can affect fertility.

Additionally, the medications you are taking may also influence erectile function. Some antibiotics and medications for urinary tract issues can lead to temporary changes in libido or erectile quality. If you were experiencing normal sexual function prior to starting these medications, it is plausible that they are contributing to your current difficulties.

Moreover, the underlying infection itself can lead to inflammation and swelling in the urethra, which might cause a sensation of blockage during ejaculation. This could be exacerbated by the medications, which may alter the normal function of the urethra and surrounding tissues.

It is also worth noting that psychological factors can play a role in sexual function. The stress and anxiety associated with your current health issues may contribute to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection, as well as in ejaculation.
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to reassess your treatment plan, possibly adjusting your medications or exploring other underlying causes for your symptoms. A thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, may be necessary to rule out any anatomical issues or complications from the infection.

In the meantime, ensure you are staying well-hydrated and practicing good hygiene, as these can help support your recovery. Avoiding irritants such as alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods may also alleviate some discomfort.

In summary, while the medications you are taking could be contributing to your symptoms, the underlying infection and its effects on your body should not be overlooked. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about all your symptoms, including any changes in sexual function, so they can provide the most appropriate care and support for your situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Ejaculation Issues After Medication: What to Expect

Hello Doctor, during my last visit, I mentioned experiencing difficulty urinating and was prescribed some medication, which resulted in no ejaculation and a significant decrease in pleasure, lasting only 1 to 2 seconds, which is a stark contrast to before. Today, during my follow...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If the condition does not improve after stopping the medication and remains unchanged after a period of observation, the relationship with the medication should be reconsidered. It is not advisable to take other medications. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Ejaculation Issues After Medication: What to Expect


Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Treatments, and Confusion

Hello, doctor. I have a question. During masturbation, I experience numbness in my penis and have lost the usual sensitivity and pleasure, or the pleasure feels weak, making it take a long time to reach ejaculation. I often feel like I can't ejaculate at all. When I visited ...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The information provided here is for reference only and cannot replace a physician's examination. 1. During masturbation, if you experience numbness in the penis and a loss of the usual sensitivity and pleasure, or if the feeling of euphoria is diminished to the poi...

[Read More] Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Treatments, and Confusion


Struggling with Ejaculation After Urinary Issues: What to Do?

Recently, I sought medical attention due to an inability to urinate despite having the urge. After treatment, my condition improved. However, I have since experienced difficulty ejaculating, whether I am alone or with my girlfriend. I would like to know if this is due to not bein...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If you have the urge to urinate but are unable to do so, and you are currently taking diuretics, you may try discontinuing the medication. Generally, recovery can occur within a week. Additionally, pay attention to your lifestyle, including sleep and gentle exercise. Wishi...

[Read More] Struggling with Ejaculation After Urinary Issues: What to Do?


Managing Medication Side Effects in Urology: A Patient's Guide

Hello, Doctor. I recently sought medical attention due to itching in my urethra. After a urinalysis, I was diagnosed with prostatitis, and the physician prescribed a two-week course of medication, including Pain Relief, Oxybutynin Extended-Release Tablets, and Uroflow. After taki...


Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Many medications for the prostate can cause retrograde ejaculation, but the extent varies. If you are very concerned about the sensation of retrograde ejaculation, you can stop the medication, and it will often return to normal. If you still experience urethral itching, yo...

[Read More] Managing Medication Side Effects in Urology: A Patient's Guide


Related FAQ