Semen leakage can be inconvenient, embarrassing and downright worrisome, especially when it happens outside of a sexual encounter. Learn more about the potential causes of this occurrence, as well as some useful guidelines for maintaining good penis health.

What is seminal leakage?

As the term implies, seminal leakage simply refers to semen leaking from the penis. This usually occurs during sexual arousal, and in most cases, it is not a sign of anything wrong. However, some types of penile injuries, along with certain diseases or medical conditions, can cause leakage as well.

Types of seminal leakage

- Arousal - The most common type of semen leakage occurs when a man is sexually aroused - whether due to direct stimulation, sexual thoughts or even simply talking to a person he finds attractive. In this case, the fluid that is leaking out might not actually be semen, but a clear fluid that serves as a natural lubricant.

- Nocturnal emissions - Commonly known as wet dreams, nocturnal emissions refer to involuntary ejaculation during sleep. This is a normal physiological response and should not be a cause for concern.

- Prescription medications and hormone therapies - Prescription medications used for treating a variety of medical conditions may cause involuntary ejection of semen. Changing medications may help to control the issue if it becomes a problem.

- Weak or damaged nerves - When the nerves of the penis are damaged due to injury, surgery or excessive masturbation, or when they become weaker as a consequence of aging, men may experience leakage after urination, during bowel movements or after sexual intercourse. Certain exercises may help men to regain control.

- Prostate problems - An enlarged prostate, surgery to the prostate and even prostate cancer may contribute to involuntary emissions. Men who have unexplained semen leakage, especially if accompanied by pain or bleeding, should seek medical treatment.

Care and prevention for better penile health

While most men are concerned about the health and function of their favorite organ, few make an effort beyond a daily shower (and, hopefully, use of a condom for every intimate encounter) to give it the specialized care it needs to stay healthy and in optimum working order. Following these guidelines can go a long way toward early detection of serious diseases, as well as prevent common problems like dryness, itching, chafing and discomfort. Adequate care of the penile skin can also guard against the reduction in sensation that comes naturally with age and even restore some degree of sensation in men who have already noticed a loss.

1) Keep it clean. Washing away a day’s worth of built-up body fluids, grime and dead skin cells can prevent chafing of the skin, as well as unpleasant odors; it can even reduce the risk for developing fungal infections and other skin disorders. A warm shower, or at least a wash at the sink, should be part of every man’s penile care routine.

2) Wear a condom. This goes without saying. Aside from preventing unwanted pregnancies, a simple barrier can prevent most sexually transmitted infections, as well as yeast and fungal infections that may not be serious, but can make life miserable for a time.

3) Make yearly medical checks a priority. Even when there is no sign of a problem, it is important to take the time to schedule an annual physical exam. Often, a check of the equipment can turn up abnormalities that could develop into something more serious if they are not dealt with right away.

4) Conduct self-checks on a monthly basis. Aside from visiting the doctor once a year, men should also make a periodic examination of their own equipment, looking out for any unusual bumps, bruises, or other signs or symptoms that could be early indicators of a problem. Men should never hesitate to consult a doctor if something does turn up, even if it turns out to be nothing at all - better safe than sorry in every case.

5) Invest in a quality penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). A nutrient formula that has been designed to target the penile tissue can provide vital support for nerve, circulatory and skin health. Daily application of a top-drawer product can leave the skin feeling soft and smooth, enhance sensitivity, provide odor control and boost resistance to common skin issues such as chafing, irritation and minor infections.