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.

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.

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.
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.
What are the potential symptoms of EDO?
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.
What treatments are available for ejaculatory duct obstruction?
Common treatments for EDO include medication, transurethral resection, and assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF and ICSI.
What is the cost of treating EDO?
Treatment costs vary based on the selected therapies and individual needs.
Meet Our Doctor

Dr. T. Kamaraj
Sexologist & Male Infertility Specialist

Dr. J. S. Jeyarani Kamaraj
Infertility Specialist