Menstrual Blood in Urine: When to Seek Urology Tests

Q: Menstrual Blood in Urine: When to Seek Urology Tests

Hello, Miss Xiaoyue： If a woman experiences periodic hematuria, it is indeed important to first consider the possibility of endometriosis. <br>However, it is essential to confirm that it is truly hematuria and not blood contamination from the vagina. <br>Endometriosis in the blad

Cyclical menstrual hematuria

Doctor, I have noticed that over the past year, I experience menstrual blood also being expelled from the urethra during my period.
I have had an ultrasound at the gynecology department, and they said there is no endometriosis.
I suspect that there might be endometriosis affecting the bladder or urinary system.
If I need to undergo urology-related examinations, should I do them during my menstrual period or wait until it is over?

Xiao Yue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/16

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology

Hello, Miss Xiaoyue: If a woman experiences periodic hematuria, it is indeed important to first consider the possibility of endometriosis.
However, it is essential to confirm that it is truly hematuria and not blood contamination from the vagina.
Endometriosis in the bladder typically bleeds only during menstruation, but urine collected during this time can easily be contaminated with menstrual blood.
Therefore, we can use catheterization to avoid contamination.
Once hematuria is confirmed, further relevant examinations can be conducted.
Chen Jiansheng, Department of Urology, Hsin Ying Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/05/16

More Info

When it comes to the presence of menstrual blood in urine, it is essential to understand the underlying causes and the appropriate timing for urological tests. In your case, where you have observed menstrual blood being expelled from the urethra, it raises concerns about potential conditions such as endometriosis, particularly if there is a suspicion of endometrial tissue affecting the bladder or urinary tract.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, and it can indeed affect the bladder and other parts of the urinary system. This can lead to symptoms such as blood in the urine, especially during menstruation. However, it is crucial to differentiate between menstrual blood and blood originating from the urinary tract, as the management and implications can differ significantly.

Regarding the timing of urological tests, it is generally advisable to avoid scheduling these tests during your menstrual period. This is because menstrual blood can contaminate urine samples, leading to inaccurate results. For accurate assessment, it is best to wait until after your menstrual cycle has concluded. Ideally, you should aim to conduct urine tests during the mid-cycle, when you are not experiencing menstruation, to ensure that the results reflect your urinary health without the interference of menstrual blood.

If you suspect endometriosis or any other underlying condition, a thorough evaluation by a urologist is warranted. This may include imaging studies such as a pelvic ultrasound or MRI to assess for any abnormalities in the bladder or surrounding structures. Additionally, a cystoscopy (a procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder) may be recommended to directly visualize the bladder lining and rule out any lesions or abnormalities.

In summary, if you are considering urological tests due to the presence of menstrual blood in your urine, it is best to wait until after your menstrual cycle. Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and the appropriate tests to rule out conditions like endometriosis or other urinary tract issues. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and alleviate any concerns you may have regarding your reproductive and urinary health.

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