Penile Bleeding During Erection: Causes and When to Seek Help

Bleeding from the penis during erection?

Hello, doctor...
I have a question.
After an erection, I noticed bleeding from the urethral opening.
It's not a lot, but it's not very little either.
I had experienced blood in my semen before, but it stopped afterward.
However, when I tried again yesterday to see if there would be any blood, I ended up bleeding after the erection.
What could this condition be? Should I seek medical attention?

A-Hui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/16

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello, have you recently experienced any injuries or excessive masturbation? Repeated erections accompanied by bleeding indicate a problem.
Please visit a urology clinic as soon as possible to identify the cause and seek treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/09/16

More Info

Experiencing penile bleeding during an erection can be concerning and may indicate an underlying medical condition. There are several potential causes for this symptom, and understanding them can help you determine whether you need to seek medical attention.

One of the most common causes of bleeding from the urethra during an erection is urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra. This condition can be caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, or it can result from non-infectious causes like trauma or irritation. If you have had unprotected sexual encounters, it is crucial to consider this possibility.

Another potential cause is penile trauma. If there has been any recent vigorous sexual activity or injury to the genital area, it could lead to bleeding. Even minor trauma that you might not have noticed can result in bleeding during an erection.

Blood in semen (hematospermia) is another related condition that can occur. While you mentioned having experienced blood in your semen previously, it is essential to differentiate between blood coming from the urethra and blood mixed with semen. Hematospermia can be caused by various factors, including infections, inflammation of the prostate (prostatitis), or even benign conditions like cysts or calcifications in the seminal vesicles.

In some cases, bleeding can be associated with more serious conditions, such as penile cancer or vascular issues. Although these are less common, they should not be overlooked, especially if the bleeding persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, swelling, or changes in the appearance of the penis.

Given your history of blood in the semen and the recent occurrence of bleeding during an erection, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider, particularly a urologist, can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, urine tests, and possibly imaging studies to determine the cause of the bleeding.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for penile bleeding during an erection, it is essential to take this symptom seriously. If the bleeding persists, is accompanied by pain, or if you have any other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can help address any underlying issues and prevent complications.

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