Blood in Semen: Causes and Concerns for Men’s Health

Bleeding

After having intercourse with my girlfriend, I noticed blood in the semen.
The next day, I tested again and found the same issue.
I later realized that there was no blood during the act, only during ejaculation.
I don't feel any pain when I touch my testicles, and there is no blood in my urine.
What could this be? Is it cancer?

nick, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/06/09

Dr. Song Zhixian reply Urology

One of the common diseases in urology outpatient clinics usually shows no abnormalities in general examinations.
A small portion may present with infections, inflammation, stones, trauma-related bleeding tendencies, or malignant lesions.
Generally, it can improve on its own within a few weeks; however, if it does not heal, further examinations are necessary to rule out the aforementioned conditions.

Reply Date: 2003/06/09

More Info

Blood in semen, known medically as hematospermia, can be a concerning symptom for many men. It’s understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of serious health issues, including cancer, when encountering this symptom. However, it’s important to note that hematospermia is not always indicative of a severe condition.
There are several potential causes of blood in semen, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. Common causes include:
1. Infection or Inflammation: Conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland), epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), or urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) can lead to blood in the semen. These infections may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain during urination, discomfort in the pelvic area, or fever.

2. Trauma: Any injury to the genital area, whether from vigorous sexual activity, sports, or accidents, can result in bleeding. If you’ve recently engaged in activities that might have caused trauma, this could be a plausible explanation.

3. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): As men age, the prostate gland can enlarge, leading to various urinary symptoms and sometimes bleeding.

4. Vascular Issues: Abnormal blood vessels in the reproductive system can sometimes rupture, leading to blood in the semen.

5. Tumors: While less common, tumors in the prostate, seminal vesicles, or other parts of the reproductive system can cause hematospermia. However, these are usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as significant pain, changes in urinary habits, or unexplained weight loss.

6. Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic conditions, such as hypertension or clotting disorders, can also lead to bleeding in various parts of the body, including the reproductive system.

Given your description, the fact that you do not experience pain in the testicles and that there is no blood in your urine is reassuring. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. A urologist can perform a physical examination, take a detailed medical history, and possibly order tests such as a urinalysis, semen analysis, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of the hematospermia.

In most cases, hematospermia is not a sign of cancer, especially if it is isolated and not accompanied by other concerning symptoms. However, it’s essential to rule out any serious conditions through appropriate medical evaluation.
In conclusion, while blood in semen can be alarming, it is often due to benign causes. Nevertheless, it is crucial to seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help address any underlying issues and provide peace of mind. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing concerns with a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

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