Blood in Semen
Blood in semen, also called hematospermia, is usually harmless but can sometimes indicate infection, inflammation, or other urological conditions. Causes include prostatitis, UTI, trauma, or rarely tumors of the prostate, seminal vesicles, or urethra.
🚨 Seek Immediate Medical Care
Call a doctor immediately if blood in semen is accompanied by:
- Severe pain in the lower abdomen, testicles, or pelvis.
- Fever or chills (possible infection).
- Difficulty urinating or blood in urine.
- History of prostate or urinary tract cancer.
📞 Consult a Urologist
See a healthcare provider if:
- Blood in semen occurs repeatedly.
- Mild discomfort or burning during ejaculation is present.
- There is a history of urinary tract infections or prostate inflammation.
- Unexplained weight loss or other systemic symptoms are noted.
Common Symptoms & Causes
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Blood streaks in semen | Prostatitis |
| Mild discomfort in pelvis | Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) |
| Blood after vigorous sexual activity | Genital or Urethral Trauma |
| Persistent hematospermia without pain | Seminal Vesicle or Prostate Tumor |
| Associated urinary symptoms | Bladder or Urethral Infection |
Causes of Blood in Semen
Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate causing minor bleeding.
UTI: Infection of the urinary tract can contribute to blood in semen.
Vigorous Sexual Activity: Can cause minor tears in the urethra or prostate.
Genital Trauma: Accidental injury to penis, prostate, or urethra.
Prostate or Seminal Vesicle Tumor: Rare but serious cause of persistent hematospermia.
Urethral or Bladder Lesions: Can contribute to blood appearing in semen.
Diagnostic Procedures
Urinalysis
Detects infection, blood, or inflammation in the urinary tract.
Semen Analysis
Checks for infection, blood cells, or abnormal seminal fluid.
Prostate Ultrasound
Imaging to detect prostate enlargement, lesions, or tumors.
Cystoscopy
Visualizes urethra and bladder for lesions or bleeding sources.
