Blood in Semen

Overview

Discovering blood in semen can be enormously frightening. However, this symptom is rather common and is usually not a critical medical condition. Also known as hematospermia, this symptom often fades away without treatment. Although the causes and triggers for blood in semen are not widely known, the general indication of this symptom is the inflammation of prostate gland or seminal vesicles.

A doctor would be able to ascertain the cause for the blood discharge in semen by performing tests such as physical examination, urinalysis, and even blood tests. These tests help determine if this symptom is a warning sign of a more serious medical condition. Blood in the semen can also be a symptom of an internal infection such as the urinary tract infection, or even sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Hypertension has also been known to cause blood in semen as well as other internal issues like cysts in the prostate.

This symptom could also be the indication of post-medical testing or other surgical procedures, such as a prostate biopsy or having a bladder catheter placement.A prostate biopsy can temporarily cause blood in the semen. However, this is harmless and it usually ceases within a few days.

Men in their 30s are affected the most by this symptom, but that doesn't rule out men belonging to the other age groups. When the small blood vessels in the urinary tract or prostate are injured, blood may be spotted in the semen. This can occur when the area is inflicted with irritation or small trauma, and is usually not a cause for grave concern. Though the condition may last a few weeks, it often resolves on its own.

Rarely, more critical medical conditions, such as cancer, can also cause blood in semen. But in case of men under the age of 40, usually the reason for blood in semen turns out to be irritation rather than cancer, which gets cured on its own with time. Older men, however, may require further testing. Similarly, men who suffer from a recurrence of this symptom must undergo further advanced evaluations.

Even after many tests, it may still be impossible to determine what exactly is causing the discharge of blood in semen. Since the semen is produced by the seminal testicles and prostate, it is likely that the blood in the semen comes from either of these organs.

Treatment

A physical examination should be fairly sufficient to initiate the treatment for this symptom; a physician would thoroughly inspect the genital and rectal area and also check the blood pressure.

While finding blood in semen is usually not a cause for fear or anxiety, it is important to keep an eye on the condition to make sure it does not worsen any further. Do consult your doctor if the symptoms persist.