WHAT IS PAINFUL EJACULATION?
Painful ejaculation is when painful, burning sensations are felt during or following ejaculation. Pain can be felt in the perineum (the area between the anus and the genitals) and the urethra (a tube that runs from the bladder to the end of the penis).
Painful ejaculation is not life-threatening but may affect sexual pleasure and can cause a man distress, anxiety and lower self-esteem.
RISK FACTORS
Painful ejaculation is not an uncommon condition and there are a number of causes, including:
DIAGNOSIS
To find the cause of painful ejaculation, a semen sample and urine sample after ejaculation may be taken. A urethral swab may be taken to see if there is an infection, such as a sexually transmitted infection. A test that looks at the inside of the bladder and urethra (cystoscopy) may also be done, although this is uncommon.
For some men, it can be hard to describe the exact location of the pain. Men should go see a doctor if they experience pain during or following ejaculation to determine if a cause can be found.
TREATMENT
All causes of painful ejaculation should be investigated by a doctor so the best treatment can be given. If no physical cause is found, some behavioural techniques to relax the muscles in the pelvic area may help some men.
When the cause is prostatitis the use of medications such as ‘alpha-blockers’, muscle relaxants, analgesics, and some anti-inflammatory drugs may help. Specific antiviral and antibiotic medications can be given if the cause of painful ejaculation is due to an infection. If the cause is psychological, counselling may help deal with any underlying concerns.
Know Your Health Risk
In 10 minutes, learn your risk level for the 8 most common health conditions affecting Canadian men. Men’s Health Check is free, anonymous and backed by medical experts.
Last updated: Jan 23, 2024