Does male urine contain sperm?

Mar 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 35-year-old male. Recently, I have noticed some abnormalities in my urine and I am concerned whether there might be sperm present. Is it possible for sperm to be present in male urine?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang

Under normal circumstances, male urine should not contain sperm, although a small amount of sperm may be present if certain medical conditions exist. Urine and semen are produced by different systems; urine is generated by the kidneys and excreted through the urethra, while semen is produced by the testes and accessory glands and is expelled during ejaculation. However, if retrograde ejaculation or certain diseases of the genitourinary system are present, a small number of sperm may appear in the urine. Retrograde ejaculation refers to semen flowing backward into the bladder rather than being expelled through the urethra during sexual climax. This condition may be caused by prostate surgery, diabetic neuropathy, or other medical conditions.

If sperm is found in the urine or if this condition is suspected, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for a comprehensive evaluation. A doctor may recommend urine analysis, ultrasound, and other relevant tests to determine whether retrograde ejaculation or another issue is present. Additionally, providing a detailed description of symptoms and medical history can assist the doctor in making an accurate diagnosis. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as drinking adequate water, avoiding excessive fatigue and stress, can help support the health of the genitourinary system.