What Are Wet Dreams (Nocturnal Emissions)?

A wet dream, or nocturnal emission, refers to ejaculation while asleep. A person with a penis who has a wet dream releases semen—the fluid that contains sperm. A person with a vagina may also have a wet dream by having an orgasm while sleeping.

Everyone's body is different, so regardless of your age or sex, it's perfectly normal if you experience wet dreams. Here's what else you need to know about wet dreams, their causes, and what to do if you experience one.

Who Has Nocturnal Emissions?

While many people associate wet dreams with teenagers, nocturnal emissions can happen to anyone. There is less research on wet dreams in females than in males. Studies have suggested that 66-85% of men and nearly half of women have had wet dreams at some point.

Wet dreams typically begin during puberty. While wet dreams are more common among teenagers, many people continue to experience them throughout life. Even married adults have reported wet dreams.

What Causes Wet Dreams?

Research is limited regarding the causes of wet dreams, but a few factors can play a role. One such factor is sexual dreams. Previous research has indicated that, for example, some women experienced nocturnal emissions as a result of sexual dreams.

Another factor is hormones. Since wet dreams typically begin during puberty, it’s natural to assume hormones may play a role. In particular, wet dreams are related to an increased testosterone level.

What To Do After a Wet Dream

There’s not much you need to do after having a wet dream, but you may want to wash yourself off. You can shower if you have time, or you might be fine with using soap, water, and a washcloth or some tissues.

Once you’ve washed off, change into clean clothes and throw your wet clothes in the wash. Remember also to wash your bedsheets if they are wet.

Prevention

Since wet dreams happen while you're sleeping, there's really not much you can do to prevent them. There aren't any research-backed ways to keep them from happening.

With that in mind, know that wet dreams are common. There's no need to feel ashamed if you have one or if you don't.

In addition, keep in mind that not every nocturnal emission is associated with a sexual dream. Even if you manage to avoid erotic dreams, that doesn't guarantee you won't wake up with wet underwear or bedding.

There's no foolproof way to avoid wet dreams. Bring a change of clothes and perhaps a towel, washcloth, or some tissues if you're worried about having wet dreams away from home.

A Quick Review

Wet dreams are a normal and healthy experience for people of all ages and genders. During wet dreams, males release semen, and females orgasm and release vaginal fluids. Hormones and sometimes sexual dreams can be the cause of nocturnal emissions.

All you have to do after a wet dream is clean yourself up, get changed, and wash any affected clothing or blankets in general. There’s nothing wrong with having wet dreams, but consider talking with a therapist, counselor, or healthcare provider if wet dreams interfere with your life.