What is nocturnal emission?

Nocturnal emission refers to ejaculation that occurs without sexual intercourse or masturbation ^[1]. It can generally be classified as physiological or pathological.

Physiological nocturnal emission is a normal physiological phenomenon, occurring at frequencies ranging from once every 1–2 weeks to once every 4–5 weeks ^[1]. Typically, there are no accompanying discomfort symptoms, and it mostly occurs during sleep, known as a "wet dream." Nocturnal emissions that occur outside of sleep are referred to as "spermatorrhea."

Pathological nocturnal emission refers to frequent occurrences, up to once or several times a day, often accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and soreness in the lower back after ejaculation ^[1].

Which department should you visit for nocturnal emission?

Urology, Andrology

What are the causes of nocturnal emission?

There are many factors that can lead to nocturnal emission, mainly including the following:

• Psychological factors: Lack of physiological knowledge, curiosity about one's own or the opposite sex's genitals, forming psychological stimulation that triggers nocturnal emission.

• Dietary factors: Poor eating habits, including excessive alcohol consumption or a preference for greasy and spicy foods, may contribute to nocturnal emission.

• Lifestyle factors: Primarily caused by overly frequent sexual activity or masturbation. Additionally, habits like sleeping naked, heavy blankets, or tight underwear may stimulate the external genitalia, leading to nocturnal emission.

• Disease factors: Conditions such as phimosis, prostatitis, or seminal vesiculitis may also trigger nocturnal emission ^[1].

Who is commonly affected by nocturnal emission?

Statistics show that 80% of unmarried young adult males experience nocturnal emission ^[1], particularly adolescents. Nocturnal emission is a normal physiological phenomenon that inevitably occurs in boys during puberty ^[2].

What are the main symptoms of nocturnal emission?

The primary symptom is the involuntary discharge of semen without sexual intercourse or masturbation. Different types of nocturnal emission present differently:

• Physiological nocturnal emission: No accompanying physical discomfort after ejaculation.

• Pathological nocturnal emission: Symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, soreness in the lower back and knees, insomnia, and vivid dreams may occur after ejaculation.

How is nocturnal emission diagnosed? What tests are needed?

Doctors typically diagnose the condition based on medical history and characteristic symptoms. However, to determine the cause, additional examinations such as physical exams and imaging tests may be required to identify underlying conditions like phimosis, prostatitis, or seminal vesiculitis ^[3].

How is nocturnal emission treated?

Physiological nocturnal emission is a normal phenomenon and usually does not require medication. Adjusting lifestyle habits can gradually improve the condition.

For patients with pathological nocturnal emission due to neurasthenia or excessive psychological burden, sedatives (e.g., phenobarbital) may be used to alleviate symptoms ^[1]. Additionally, treatment should target the underlying cause:

• For nocturnal emission caused by phimosis, circumcision may be performed ^[3].

• For nocturnal emission caused by inflammatory conditions (e.g., prostatitis, seminal vesiculitis), targeted anti-infection treatments such as quinolones (e.g., levofloxacin) may be used to reduce inflammation ^[3].

• For cases caused by poor lifestyle habits, timely corrections such as avoiding tight underwear are necessary.

How does nocturnal emission affect daily life?

Long-term frequent nocturnal emission may lead to sexual dysfunction, such as premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction, and may also cause anxiety or depression.

How can nocturnal emission be prevented?

• Dietary measures: Opt for a light diet and avoid excessive alcohol or spicy foods.

• Lifestyle adjustments: Avoid excessive sexual activity or masturbation. Additionally, habits like sleeping naked or wearing tight underwear should be changed to prevent genital stimulation.

• Psychological measures: Learn relevant physiological knowledge, reduce curiosity, avoid exposure to erotic materials, and maintain a healthy mindset.

• Disease management: If conditions like phimosis are present, timely treatment is recommended.