Blood in Semen
Blood in semen, called hematospermia, can be alarming, but it is usually not serious and often goes away on its own. This condition is not very common and can happen for many reasons, including infection, inflammation, or a recent medical procedure. Men under 40 who notice blood in their semen usually do not face serious risks, especially if it happens only once and there are no other symptoms.
Most cases result from minor issues, such as irritation or mild injury, and often do not need treatment. Knowing the possible causes and when to see a doctor can help people feel less worried.
What Is Blood in Semen (Hematospermia)?
Hematospermia means blood mixes with the semen that comes out during ejaculation. This can appear as red, brown, pink, or rust-colored spots or streaks in the semen. Sometimes, people only notice it by chance. This symptom can be alarming, but it rarely comes from something serious. In many cases, blood in the semen clears up on its own without treatment.
Doctors often do not find a cause for hematospermia. Recent medical procedures, such as a prostate biopsy, can lead to this symptom. Minor injuries, infections, or procedures can make the seminal vesicles bleed, leading to blood in the semen. The seminal vesicles, which help make semen, are a common source of the bleeding.
Other possible causes include infections or swelling of the prostate, seminal vesicles, or urethra. People under 40 rarely have hematospermia linked to cancer or other serious illnesses. For those over 40, especially if they have other symptoms, doctors may suggest more tests to rule out other problems.
Symptoms Associated With Blood in Semen
Blood in semen, also called hematospermia, can come with different symptoms. Some people notice pain, changes in color, or other problems with urination or general health.
Pain or Discomfort
Some people with hematospermia feel pain or discomfort, often during ejaculation. This pain can also happen in the penis, testicles, or pelvic area. Sometimes, there is a burning feeling or sharp pain. The pain can extend to the lower abdomen or near the prostate. Discomfort may come and go or stay, depending on the cause.
Some people feel discomfort during urination as well. Pain or discomfort, especially with other symptoms, means medical attention may be needed. It helps to keep track of when the pain starts and how severe it gets.
Visible Color Changes
One of the most noticeable symptoms is a change in the color of semen. Semen might look pink, red, brown, or have streaks of blood. The amount of blood can vary. Sometimes, it is only a small streak, and other times, it is enough to change all the semen’s color. These changes happen because blood mixes with semen in the prostate, seminal vesicles, or nearby structures.
The color depends on how much blood is present and how fresh the bleeding is. Darker colors may mean the blood is older. Sometimes, blood in semen is only seen once and does not return.
| Color | Possible Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pink or light red | Recent bleeding |
| Dark red or brown | Older/dried blood |
| Bright red | Active or new bleeding |
Systemic and Urinary Symptoms
Blood in semen can also appear with other symptoms affecting the body or urinary system. Some people feel pain or burning when urinating. Others see blood in their urine. Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell may point to an infection or swelling, possibly in the prostate or bladder.
Unexplained weight loss, tiredness, or swelling in the genital area are less common but should be taken seriously. Not everyone has these extra symptoms, but their presence increases the urgency to seek care.
Causes of blood in semen
Blood in semen is called hematospermia. Many possible causes exist. Often, no clear reason appears. Most common causes include:
- A small blood vessel breaks during ejaculation (like a nosebleed).
- Mild trauma or injury, sometimes after a recent medical procedure such as a prostate biopsy or vasectomy.
- Infections or swelling of the prostate, urethra, or seminal vesicles.
- Enlargement of the prostate.
Less common causes:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Stones in the urinary or reproductive tract.
- Cancer of the prostate, testicles, or bladder, though this is rare.
Other factors:
- Heavy exercise or activities that put pressure on the pelvic area.
- Sexual activity that is vigorous or frequent.
- Recent injury to the groin area.
| Cause Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Non-disease | Exercise, minor trauma, medical procedures |
| Infection | Prostatitis, STIs, UTIs |
| Inflammation | Swelling of prostate or seminal vesicles |
| Growths | Enlarged prostate, rare cancers |
When to See a Specialist
Most people notice blood in their semen and feel worried. While it can be alarming, it does not always mean there is a serious problem. See a specialist if:
- You notice blood in your semen more than once.
- You are over 40 years old.
- You have other symptoms, like pain, fever, or trouble urinating.
- You have a family history of prostate problems.
- The blood does not go away after a few weeks.
Young and healthy people who see blood in their semen only one time and have no other symptoms usually do not need urgent care. Still, a medical visit can help ease worry. Your doctor may suggest simple tests such as urine and blood tests. They may also check you with a physical exam. If needed, your doctor might order further tests like an ultrasound or a prostate check.
