What Is Ejaculation? It Is the Release of Sperm After Sexual Intercourse or Masturbation. Understand the Process and Factors Involved.
Ejaculation is the physiological process responsible for carrying the sperm present in semen to the egg.
In today’s blog, we will detail what ejaculation is, what influences and hinders it, and explain the disorders related to it. Check it out.
What Is Ejaculation?
Ejaculation is the release of sperm through the urethra by contracting the muscles around the reproductive organs during orgasm.
The sperm is part of the semen, the fluid that contains sperm cells as well as fluids produced by the seminal glands, prostate, and a small amount of fluid from the bulbourethral gland.
These fluids work to neutralize the urethra and the vaginal tract, and to support sperm motility and nourishment.
The Ejaculation Cycle
The ejaculation process is orchestrated by the sympathetic nervous system. It triggers the contraction of muscles and glands to release semen. The ejaculation cycle has two phases:
- Emission phase: the combination of fluids from the prostate, seminal vesicles, and sperm that move to the urethra;
- Expulsion phase: contractions of the muscles near the male reproductive system during orgasm cause the urethra to release the sperm.
What Does a Man Feel When Ejaculating?
Regarding the physiology of ejaculation, a man typically experiences:
- Changes in heart and respiratory rate: the sympathetic nervous system contracts the muscles and glands involved in ejaculation and also increases heart rate and breathing;
- Muscle contractions: rhythmic contractions of the pelvic muscles, prostate, and urethra responsible for expelling the seminal fluid;
- Hormone release: during ejaculation, hormones such as oxytocin, nicknamed the “pleasure hormone,” are released, contributing to feelings of relaxation and satisfaction.
Psychologically, feelings after ejaculation can include deep emotional relief, relaxation, well-being, and increased connection and intimacy with a partner. However, these emotions vary depending on one’s emotional state and relationship, and some men may experience frustration or guilt.
What Is Released During Male Ejaculation?
The seminal fluid contains substances that protect, nourish, and help sperm move. Here are the main components and their functions:
- Seminal gland fluid: rich in fructose, which provides energy to sperm, and alkaline substances that neutralize the vaginal tract, increasing sperm survival;
- Prostatic fluid: the prostate fluid is slightly alkaline and contains enzymes and zinc. Its function is to neutralize acidity in the urethra and vaginal tract, and to help with sperm motility;
- Fluid from the seminal vesicles: contains substances like fructose that nourish and aid sperm motility;
- Bulbourethral gland fluid: also called Cowper’s gland, located below the prostate, near the base of the penis. The clear, viscous fluid produced by this gland is released before ejaculation and serves to lubricate and neutralize urethral acidity, facilitating semen passage.
Is It Possible to Ejaculate More Than Once During Sex?
Not in the same sexual encounter, because after ejaculation the man enters the refractory period, a recovery time during which he cannot achieve an erection.
The duration of the refractory period varies and depends on factors such as age and health conditions. Older men typically take longer to respond to erotic stimuli again. However, sexual problems like erectile dysfunction can also delay resuming sexual activity in younger men.
The Importance of Male Ejaculation
The main function of ejaculation is fertilization, meaning enabling the sperm contained in the semen to reach the egg. Sperm reach the egg in two stages:
- First stage: the bladder closes so that no urine is released. Then, the urethra receives fluids from glands around the urethra, the prostate, and the seminal vesicles;
- Second stage: the sympathetic nervous system contracts the pelvic muscles so the penis can expel the sperm.
Which Factors Influence Ejaculation?
Physical, environmental, and emotional factors all influence ejaculation and overall sexual health. Take a look:
- Hormonal balance: normal levels of testosterone are crucial for maintaining male sexual health because they regulate libido, contribute to healthy erections and ejaculations, and support proper functioning of the male reproductive system;
- Emotional factors: confidence in oneself, in the relationship, and in one’s personal and professional life contributes to satisfying sexual experiences;
- Physical stimulation: physical stimuli are important in all phases of a man’s sexual response, including libido, arousal, and orgasm.
And Which Factors Hinder It?
Now, find out what can hinder the ejaculation process:
- Age: reduced testosterone is part of aging and may lead to ejaculation disorders such as premature or retrograde ejaculation;
- Use of medications: according to this article from UFRGS (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul), medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia, such as finasteride, affect semen volume and sperm motility. The same document also notes that doxazosin, alfuzosin, terazosin, and tamsulosin, also used in BPH treatment, alter ejaculatory function, and that silodosin can drastically reduce ejaculatory volume;
- Anxiety: anxiety about perfect sexual performance prevents the man from enjoying the moment, often leading to premature ejaculation.
Do Men Who Undergo a Vasectomy Still Ejaculate?
Yes, men who undergo a vasectomy ejaculate normally. What changes is that after the sterilization procedure, sperm cells do not mix with the semen because the channels responsible for transporting them to the urethra are cut or blocked.
Common Ejaculatory Disorders
Learn about the characteristics of premature ejaculation, retrograde ejaculation, and absence of ejaculation:
- Premature ejaculation: an ejaculation disorder where the man ejaculates within one minute after penetration or even before it. Emotional issues, stress, male anatomical factors like penile hypersensitivity, and chronic diseases can cause premature ejaculation;
- Retrograde ejaculation: sperm is not expelled because it remains in the bladder. The causes of retrograde ejaculation include pelvic injuries and surgeries, hormonal disorders, and the use of medications for high blood pressure and prostate diseases;
- Absence of ejaculation: the inability to ejaculate is called anejaculation and may be primary (when the man has never ejaculated) or secondary (when he used to ejaculate normally and stopped). Physical factors such as prostate removal and emotional problems can cause this dysfunction.
Diagnosis and Treatments for Ejaculation Problems
Learn about the diagnoses and treatments for ejaculatory disorders:
Premature Ejaculation
- Diagnosis: the diagnosis of premature ejaculation is made by a urologist after analyzing the patient’s complaints;
- Treatment: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are used to treat depression but are often prescribed in the treatment of premature ejaculation because they increase serotonin levels in the brain, helping to control ejaculation. Treatment may include therapy, depending on medical evaluation.
Retrograde Ejaculation
- Diagnosis: after the patient’s report, the urologist orders tests to analyze semen quality, urinalysis to rule out urinary infections, imaging exams (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), and urodynamic tests to evaluate the bladder and urethra during urination and ejaculation;
- Treatment: electrical stimulation of the nerves that control ejaculation, alpha-agonist medications to close the bladder during ejaculation, and surgery if other treatments fail.
Anejaculation
- Diagnosis: the urologist discusses the patient’s medical history, including emotional issues, sexual habits, pre-existing diseases such as hypertension, and any hormonal or neurological problems. Then, he may request urine tests, blood tests, neurological exams, and ultrasound, as well as a psychological assessment;
- Treatment: oral medications to stimulate the production and release of seminal fluid, electroejaculation if there is infertility, and psychotherapy.
5 Practical Tips to Improve Sexual Health
Adopting physical and psychological self-care can contribute to better sexual health. Check out these tips:
- Balanced diet: a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats helps improve circulation, which is essential for erections;
- Physical activity: regular exercise can have positive effects on circulation and stress reduction, factors that influence sexual health;
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco: these substances compromise circulation and can cause erectile dysfunction;
- Regular check-ups: to detect health problems early that could affect sexuality;
- Open communication: talking openly with your partner about concerns, preferences, and desires is key to a satisfying sex life.
Ejaculation disorders can affect men’s physical and mental health, but the correct diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment.
Having access to quality information helps you take care of your health. Explore the blog of Dr. Paulo Egydio for tips on sexual health and quality of life.
