Hematospermia: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Q: Hematospermia: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Hello： If the semen appears red, dark red, or rust-colored, it is important to seek medical attention, and a visit to the urology department is necessary. <br>Maintain a light diet, drink plenty of water, and engage in gentle exercise for at least half an hour each day. <br>Wishi

I am experiencing semen retention syndrome?

I occasionally masturbate, but I haven't done so recently.
Although I sometimes experience erections and feel the urge, I have been able to resist.
Last Monday, I wanted to masturbate, but I noticed that the semen had a faint trace of blood and a small blood spot (about the size of a pen tip) on the tissue.
I was a bit scared, so I decided to go to sleep.
By Tuesday, I was still worried, so I tried again, and the result was the same as the day before.
I researched the condition known as hematospermia and looked into its causes and symptoms.
Since I did not experience any pain or discomfort in my genital area, there was no bleeding after ejaculation, and I did not feel any burning sensation while urinating, I decided to wait a week before trying again.
To be honest, I was a bit scared and hesitant to try, but this time there was no blood, although the semen had a faint brown color.
I'm unsure if this indicates a more serious issue.
Could you please help clarify this for me?

Xiao Sa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/06

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If the semen appears red, dark red, or rust-colored, it is important to seek medical attention, and a visit to the urology department is necessary.
Maintain a light diet, drink plenty of water, and engage in gentle exercise for at least half an hour each day.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/02/06

More Info

Hematospermia, or the presence of blood in semen, can be a concerning symptom for many individuals. It is important to understand the potential causes, associated symptoms, and when to seek medical help.

Causes of Hematospermia
Hematospermia can arise from various sources, including:
1. Infections: Infections of the prostate (prostatitis), seminal vesicles, or urethra can lead to blood in the semen. These infections may not always present with pain or discomfort.

2. Inflammation: Conditions such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) can also cause hematospermia.

3. Trauma: Any injury to the genital area, whether from vigorous sexual activity, masturbation, or an accident, can result in bleeding.

4. Vascular Issues: Abnormalities in blood vessels, such as varicoceles or other vascular malformations, can lead to bleeding.

5. Tumors: Though less common, tumors in the reproductive organs can cause hematospermia. These can be benign or malignant.

6. Medical Procedures: Recent medical interventions, such as biopsies or surgeries involving the reproductive organs, can also lead to temporary bleeding.

7. Systemic Conditions: Conditions affecting blood clotting or systemic diseases may also manifest as hematospermia.

Symptoms to Monitor
In your case, the absence of pain during ejaculation and the lack of discomfort during urination are reassuring signs. However, it is essential to monitor for any additional symptoms, including:
- Persistent or worsening bleeding
- Pain in the pelvic area or lower abdomen
- Fever or chills, which may indicate an infection
- Changes in urinary habits or discomfort during urination

When to Seek Help
While occasional hematospermia can be benign, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional if:
- The bleeding persists for more than a few weeks.

- You experience significant pain or discomfort.

- There are changes in urinary patterns or any other concerning symptoms.

- You have a history of prostate issues or other relevant medical conditions.

Conclusion
Given your experience of seeing blood in your semen and then a subsequent change to a brownish color, it is understandable to feel anxious. Brownish discharge often indicates older blood, which may suggest that the bleeding has stopped but still warrants attention. It is advisable to wait for a week as you planned, but if the symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical evaluation is prudent. A healthcare provider can perform necessary tests, such as a physical examination, ultrasound, or blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

In summary, while hematospermia can be alarming, many cases are benign. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if symptoms persist. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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