What are the causes of nocturnal emission?

Oct 25, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I used to masturbate frequently. Recently, I started dating a girlfriend and began having sexual intercourse, yet I’ve been experiencing frequent nocturnal emissions. Generally speaking, what are the causes of nocturnal emissions?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Mingchuan
Nocturnal emission is a normal physiological phenomenon in males. Sperm continuously develop within the body; if they are not expelled through regular means (e.g., ejaculation), they may be released involuntarily during sleep—manifesting as nocturnal emissions. This process is entirely normal and reflects the body’s natural mechanism for maintaining sperm viability and regulating reproductive health. Therefore, experiencing nocturnal emissions during male development is common and expected, as it helps ensure that sperm remain viable and functional. Conversely, the complete absence of nocturnal emissions may indicate an underlying endocrine imbalance.