Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction

Ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) occurs when the ducts that carry sperms from the testicles and seminal vesicles to the urethra become blocked. This blockage can lead to problems with ejaculation and fertility. It is considered a rare condition, affecting about 5% of infertile men. Without appropriate treatment, men with this obstruction have a low likelihood of conceiving a child with their female partner.
However, early diagnosis of symptoms and causes, combined with timely treatment, can improve your reproductive health and increase the chances of conception. At Dr. Kamaraj Hospital, our team is committed to diagnosing and treating ejaculatory duct obstruction using advanced techniques to help restore fertility and support family planning efforts.

ejaculatory duct obstruction symptoms

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction

Common symptoms of ejaculatory duct obstruction include:

  • Low semen volume or absence of semen (aspermia)
  • Blood in the semen (hematospermia) and urine (hematuria)
  • Pain in the prostate
  • Pain during or after intercourse
  • Infertility or difficulty achieving pregnancy

Diagnostic Tests for Ejaculatory Duct ObstructionTo accurately diagnose and provide ejaculatory duct obstruction treatment, the following tests are commonly performed:

  • Semen Analysis: It assesses sperm count, motility, and morphology to evaluate male fertility.
  • Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): It detects abnormalities in the prostate and surrounding tissues.
  • Semen Fructose Analysis: It evaluates the presence of fructose in semen, which is essential for sperm energy.
  • Vasogram: It uses a contrast dye to image the vas deferens, helping identify blockages or structural issues in the ducts that could impact fertility.

Causes of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction

Ejaculatory duct obstruction in men can result from various factors:

Congenital Anomalies

Developmental abnormalities, such as cysts in the ejaculatory duct or seminal vesicles, are among the primary causes of EDO.

Infections and Inflammation

Recurrent infections or inflammation of the reproductive organs can lead to scarring that obstructs the ejaculatory ducts.

Trauma or Surgical Complications

Injuries to the pelvic region or complications from surgeries involving the prostate or urethra may also result in obstruction.

Tumours and Cysts

Benign or malignant tumours, along with cysts located within or near the ejaculatory ducts, can cause partial or complete blockage.

Ejaculatory duct obstruction treatment

Types of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction

There are three main types of ejaculatory duct obstruction:

  • Complete or Classic EDO- In this type, both ducts are fully blocked, preventing the flow of semen. This often results in low semen volume and infertility.
  • Incomplete or Partial EDO- This occurs when one duct is completely blocked, or both ducts are partially obstructed. It can result in reduced semen volume and low sperm quality, impacting fertility.
  • Functional EDO- This type is similar to complete EDO but involves neurological dysfunction of the seminal vesicles rather than a physical blockage.

Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction Treatment Services

The treatment for EDO depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:

  • Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)- If EDO leads to infertility, techniques such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) can be used. These methods allow for sperm retrieval directly from the testicles or epididymis to enable fertilisation and achieve pregnancy.
  • Medication- Depending on the underlying cause, medication may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and manage the condition.
  • Transurethral Resection- This procedure removes any obstructions, such as stones or tissue, blocking the ejaculatory ducts, allowing semen to flow naturally.

The Process of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction Treatment at KHPL

At Dr. Kamaraj Hospital, we offer a patient-focused approach to treat EDO.

Comprehensive Evaluation

Our specialists perform a thorough assessment using advanced diagnostics to identify blockages affecting semen flow.

Personalised Treatment Plan

Based on our findings, we develop a tailored treatment plan that targets the root cause to restore normal semen flow and improve fertility.

Continuous Support

We conduct regular follow-ups during treatment to track progress and make necessary adjustments.

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Kamaraj Hospital provides specialised treatment for ejaculatory duct obstruction, focusing on individualised care in a supportive environment.

Our expert team conducts thorough evaluations and offers effective treatment options that prioritise men's health.

Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. Kamaraj

Take the first step toward managing EDO and improving your reproductive health.

FAQ

How is EDO diagnosed?

Common tests for diagnosing EDO include semen analysis, transrectal ultrasound, X-ray of the vas deferens, and vasography.

Common symptoms of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction include low or absent semen volume (aspermia), pain during or after intercourse, blood in the semen, and discomfort in the prostate.

Common treatments for EDO include medication, transurethral resection, and assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF and ICSI.

Treatment costs vary based on the selected therapies and individual needs.

Meet Our Doctor

Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. T Kamaraj

Dr. T. Kamaraj

Sexologist & Male Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and gynaecology
Infertility Specialist Dr. J S Jeyarani Kamaraj

Dr. J. S. Jeyarani Kamaraj

Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and genecology, including an MD and a Diploma in Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGO)