Blood in Semen: Should You Worry?

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Most men who experienced having blood in semen usually become anxious and stressed even if the condition is not painful. The mere sight of blood can raise alarm in any person that it usually triggers them to visit the doctor.

Blood in semen is a medical condition known as hermospermia or hematospermia. Men age 40 and below need not worry too much as the condition can be quite harmless and usually resolves on its own. Unfortunately, for men beyond 40 need to visit the doctor immediately for check-up and follow up treatment.

The risk is greater for those who experienced repeated episodes of hematospermia; have increased risk for infection, bleeding disorder or cancer; or those who experience accompanying symptoms when ejaculating or urinating.

Causes of Blood in Semen

Inflammation or Infection

Any infection or inflammation in the prostate gland, urethra, vas deference, epididymis and seminal vesicles can produce semen mixed with blood. Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) can also cause the condition. Any bacterial or viral infection affecting the male reproductive system may also cause hematospermia.

Trauma

Any physical injury, vigorous sexual activity or medical procedure can be a cause for hematospermia. Procedures such as prostate biopsy, radiation therapy, hemorrhoid injection or vasectomy can cause blood to appear in the semen.

Obstruction in the Reproductive Tract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can cause obstruction in the ducts and tubes of the male reproductive tract. The condition causes enlarged prostate glands and a nipped urethra. The increase in pressure secondary to obstruction can cause blood vessels to break leading to blood in the semen.

Polyps and Tumors

Men, especially those older than 40 need to have their prostates checked if they experience hematospermia. It can be caused by polyps and tumors, as well as cancer to the bladder, testicles, urinary tract and other parts of the reproductive tract.

Tests and Diagnostic Evaluation

Aside from performing a physical exam, the doctor may request lab tests such as urinalysis, urine culture, PSA testing, and STD testing. Diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, MRI, CT scan and cystoscopy may also be requested.

In order to rule out blood coming from the partner’s menstrual period, the doctor may request the patient to perform the condom test in order to obtain a “clean” sample of the semen.

Treatment for Hematospermia

Treatment for hematospermia depends on the underlying condition. If it is due to bacterial infection, then anti-biotics are prescribed. If it is due to inflammation, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed. If blood in semen is secondary certain medical conditions such as hypertension, liver disease or STD, then the primary condition will be treated.

In cases where blood in semen is caused by trauma, physical injury or as a result of medical procedure, the condition will simply resolve on its own. Usually, no further treatment is needed. In cases where the cause is vigorous sexual activity, abstinence for a few days may be advised.

 

If you have experience hematospermia once in your life, it would be best to visit and discuss the condition with your doctor. It would help clear your mind and take off unnecessary stress the condition may bring.

 

Photo credit: damk on Pixabay



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