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Retrograde ejaculation protein concentration (urine)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of proteins that originate from the prostate gland in urine, which helps assess whether semen is being ejaculated backward into the bladder during orgasm (a condition called retrograde ejaculation).

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or evaluate retrograde ejaculation, a condition where semen enters the bladder instead of the vagina."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98412-0
Short code
Retrogr Ejac Pnl Ur
Synonyms
Retrogr Ejac Pnl Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you experience difficulty becoming pregnant, unexplained infertility, or if you suspect you have retrograde ejaculation. It can also be used to confirm or investigate symptoms related to ejaculatory dysfunction.

How the Test Works

During the test, urine is collected after ejaculation. The presence of prostate-specific proteins in the urine indicates that semen was ejaculated backward into the bladder.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to ejaculate into a collection device, and the urine sample is then analyzed for specific proteins.

What to Expect During the Test

The procedure is simple and typically involves collecting urine post-orgasm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Positive results for prostate-specific proteins in urine strongly suggest retrograde ejaculation. This condition can affect fertility and may require further evaluation or treatment options, such as sperm retrieval techniques or medical interventions.

Short name

Retrograde ejaculation protein test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates that semen was likely ejaculated into your bladder instead of out of your body, confirming retrograde ejaculation. This can help guide further diagnostic steps or treatment planning.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result for these proteins in urine suggests that semen was not detected in the bladder post-orgasm, which may indicate normal ejaculation or other underlying issues that need further medical evaluation.
How often should this test be repeated?
This test is usually performed once to confirm or investigate suspected retrograde ejaculation. If needed, repeat testing may be considered under specific medical guidance, such as for ongoing infertility evaluation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy