What is ejaculation?
Ejaculation is the release of semen from the penis at orgasm (sexual climax). When a man is sexually stimulated, the brain sends signals to the genital area through nerves in the spinal cord to make the pelvic muscles contract.
At orgasm, waves of muscle contractions transport the sperm, with a small amount of fluid, from the testes through to the vas deferens. The seminal vesicles and prostate contribute extra fluid to protect the sperm.
This mixture of sperm and fluid (semen) travels along the urethra to the tip of the penis where it is ejaculated (released).
A side view showing the main parts of the male reproductive system
What are ejaculation problems?
Men can experience different kinds of ejaculation problems, including:
- premature ejaculation
- retrograde ejaculation
- delayed ejaculation (or no ejaculation)
- painful ejaculation.
How common are ejaculation problems?
Premature ejaculation is the most common male sexual problem and affects men of all ages. Premature ejaculation happens when a man is unable to control the timing of ejaculation, and ejaculates before he and/or his partner feels ready for this to happen, and this causes distress.
More details about premature ejaculation can be found in a separate Andrology Australia fact sheet.
The other ejaculation problems are less common than premature ejaculation but can also cause distress for the man and his partner.
What causes ejaculation problems?
Ejaculation problems can have a variety of causes, both physical and psychological. Physical causes include some illnesses such as diabetes, some types of surgery or trauma, some types of inflammation or infection, and certain medicines. Psychological causes include stress, anxiety (such as anxiety about ‘sexual performance’), relationship difficulties and depression.
For each type of ejaculation problem and for each individual man there may be one or more causes of an ejaculation problem.
What should I do if I have an ejaculation problem?
If you have an ejaculation problem that is bothering you, a discussion with your local doctor (GP) is the best place to start to find out the cause of the problem and how it may be treated or managed. The GP may refer you to a specialist if needed.
What about partners?
Talking to your partner can be helpful, particularly if you are feeling anxious about your ejaculation problem. When seeking treatment, involving your partner is also a good idea. In some cases partners have their own sexual problems that may need to be managed.
Where can I find information about other sexual problems?
Andrology Australia has fact sheets on other sexual problems including premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction and low libido. See the Your Health section of website for the full range of fact sheets.
