A nocturnal emission or ‘wet dream’ as it is known informally, is a normal occurrence and can happen to both males and females
It is a spontaneous orgasm during sleep that includes ejaculation for males and vaginal wetness or an orgasm for females. Wet dreams usually happen during dreams that have sexual images in it, but not always.
Wet dreams occur during REM sleep when your heart and breathing rates get faster. This increases the blood flow throughout the body, including to your genitals, which makes them hypersensitive to stimulation of any kind.
If you have experienced a wet dream, it is not a cause for concern or guilt. Equally, it’s just as normal not to experience wet dreams at all. Every person is unique and, as such, their dreams are individual to them.
Asking questions
It’s completely natural that you might have questions around sexual activity. It can be difficult to find accurate information so it is important that you get your information from a reliable source.
While we understand that having these conversations with your parents or family might feel daunting or embarrassing, sharing what’s on your mind can be incredibly helpful and make you feel much better.
Do you have a trusted adult in your life who you would feel comfortable talking to about this? It could be a parent, aunt/uncle, grandparent, or someone outside of the family like a teacher and/or a neighbour. You have the right to be heard and supported. Â
Talk to ChildlineÂ
Remember, you can always contact Childline at any time, for any reason. You can use the Live Chat button on our website or you can give us a call on 1800 66 66 66 if you don’t feel ready to talk to someone in your life quite yet. We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Â
In the meantime, you can read more about wet dreams here.
