Is Prolonged Erection Causing Blood in Semen? the Risks - Urology

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Is prolonged erection the cause of bleeding?


Doctor, I would like to ask about this morning.
After waking up, I had an erection for about 50 minutes without ejaculation (during which there was brief friction of the genitalia).
After getting out of bed, I still engaged in masturbation, but the semen was mixed with blood.
However, after ejaculation, I did not experience any discomfort, and urination was smooth.
The semen was normal during masturbation two days ago.
Is this more likely due to inflammation, or could it be a result of prolonged engorgement causing microvascular rupture? Additionally, I have previously noticed red spots in my semen during more frequent masturbation sessions.
Is this due to excessive frequency? I typically masturbate 3 to 4 times a week, and I have had normal check-ups in the past.
The doctor advised that I should limit it to a maximum of twice a week.
Could the bleeding truly be a result of my excessive frequency? Thank you for your response!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/02/21

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Anonymous: Hello, blood in the semen is mostly caused by issues such as ruptured blood vessels or infections.
Excessive frequency or overly intense stimulation can indeed lead to bleeding.
Once a blood vessel ruptures, it typically takes about 2-6 weeks to fully recover.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/02/21

More Info


Prolonged erections, particularly those that last longer than usual, can indeed lead to various complications, including the presence of blood in semen, a condition known as hematospermia. This can be concerning for many individuals, and it’s important to understand the potential causes and risks associated with this phenomenon.

When you experience a prolonged erection, the increased blood flow to the genital area can lead to engorgement of the blood vessels. If this engorgement is excessive or prolonged, it can potentially cause micro-tears in the small blood vessels within the reproductive system, leading to blood mixing with semen. This is particularly true if there is also friction involved, as you mentioned with the brief rubbing of the genital area.
In your case, since you experienced blood in your semen after a prolonged erection and some manual stimulation, it is plausible that the combination of these factors contributed to the bleeding. The fact that you did not experience any discomfort, pain during urination, or other symptoms is a positive sign, as it may indicate that the bleeding is not due to a serious underlying condition. However, it is essential to monitor for any changes, such as persistent bleeding, pain, or changes in urination, as these could indicate a more significant issue.

Regarding your question about the frequency of masturbation, it is possible that excessive or aggressive masturbation could lead to irritation or trauma to the tissues of the penis or surrounding areas, which might also result in blood appearing in the semen. While masturbation is a normal sexual activity, moderation is key. The recommendation of limiting masturbation to a maximum of two times a week is often based on the idea of allowing the body adequate time to recover and maintain optimal sexual health. Frequent masturbation, especially if done aggressively, can lead to irritation, inflammation, or even minor injuries, which could explain the occasional presence of blood.

If you have previously undergone medical evaluations and were told that everything was normal, it is likely that the instances of blood in your semen are not indicative of a serious health issue, especially if they are infrequent and resolve on their own. However, if you continue to notice blood in your semen or if it becomes a recurring issue, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. They may recommend tests to rule out any underlying conditions, such as infections, inflammation, or other abnormalities in the reproductive system.

In summary, while prolonged erections and frequent masturbation can lead to temporary issues like blood in semen, it is essential to listen to your body and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen. Maintaining a balanced approach to sexual activity and being mindful of any changes in your body can help ensure your sexual health remains optimal.

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