When semen has blood – hematospermia, as it is officially called – this might make many of us fearful. This rare condition isn’t always a sign of a serious medical problem, but knowing what it might be, how it could be diagnosed and treated is vital for any person with this symptom. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at hematospermia — its causes, diagnostic criteria, possible remedies, and when to seek treatment.
What is Hematospermia?
Hematospermia means blood in semen. It may take the form of rust or reddish semen, sometimes more frequently and sometimes less frequently. Although frightening, hematospermia is often mild and self-limiting. But it can also be indicative of more serious medical conditions that need attention.
Prevalence of Hematospermia
Hematospermia is extremely rare, occurring in less than 1% of men across the general population. It is most prevalent in men between the ages of 30-40 but can occur at any age. This condition can also be painful for those living with it and their partners, because of the stigma and fear of blood in body fluids.
Why is Blood Usually found in Semen?
The symptoms of hematospermia can range from benign to disturbing. Some of the most frequent causes include:
1. Infections
Among the most common reasons for blood in semen is infection of the reproductive and urinary tracts. The two most common causes are prostatetitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) and epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis). These infections typically also have other symptoms, including lower abdominal or genital pain, fever, difficulty urinating, and occasionally general weakness. Such symptoms signify the urgent need to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
2. Prostate Issues
In older men, the prostate often triggers hematospermia. Prostatitis can cause inflammation, breaking the tiny blood vessels and allowing blood to flow into the semen. Conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or the benign, non-cancerous growth of the prostate, or more serious conditions such as prostate cancer are risk factors for hematospermia. Periodic prostate exams and screenings can help diagnose and treat these conditions in advance.
3. Genital Trauma
Trauma to the genitals leads to hematospermia. It may be injured due to aggressive sex, accidents, or sporting events. The blood can flow into the seminal vesicles or the prostate as a result of the force received while performing these activities. Men who have suffered hematospermia after an injury should be careful to watch their symptoms, especially when there is significant pain or swelling.
4. Vascular Abnormalities
There are vascular disorders that can make the veins larger, for example a varicocele (an abnormal dilation of the veins in the scrotum). Such vascular defects can disrupt blood supply, and even cause hematospermia. Men with such vascular dysfunction should take care of themselves so that they don’t become even more vulnerable.
5. Tumors
Although rare, tumours of the reproductive tract or other organs can also lead to blood in the semen. These can range from benign lesions to malignant tumors. Any blood in semen that appears new or persistent, or any other symptoms of concern (such as sudden weight loss, weakness, severe pain) should be assessed by a physician.
6. Medical Procedures
Occasionally, after medical procedures – such as a prostate biopsy or a vasectomy – men can experience brief hematospermia. Such procedures can result in inflammation or tiny tissue grafts, and thus blood in the semen. These potential side effects are often discussed with patients during pre-operative consultations.
7. Medications
Prescription blood thinners, such as anticoagulants like warfarin, increase bleeding and cause hematospermia. Men who are taking these medications need to openly discuss any unusual symptoms with their physician.
8. Other Conditions
hematospermia could be related to underlying medical conditions including high blood pressure, liver dysfunction or bleeding problems. All of these larger-scale health problems may sometimes impede the flow of blood across the body, causing semen to be red. If a man has a medical condition that makes him susceptible to bruising, a patient’s symptoms should be further assessed.
Diagnosis of Hematospermia
If you see blood in your semen, you must seek immediate medical attention. A diagnosis may include the following steps:
Medical History: The doctor will obtain a complete history of your symptoms, illness, medications, and potential sexually transmitted diseases.
Physical Exam: A full physical exam may be administered with particular attention to the genitals and prostate.
Laboratory Tests: A blood test may be necessary to test for infections, liver function, and any blood clotting abnormalities.
Imaging Exams: Depending on the results, images such as a scrotal ultrasound or pelvic MRI may be suggested to image the reproductive system.
Cystoscopy: Cystoscopy is done when the other tests aren’t conclusive. This involves passing a small camera-enabled tube through the urethra to view the bladder and prostate region.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Though hematospermia is relatively harmless, there are instances when you really need to visit your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if:
The presence of blood in semen lasts more than a few days.
You suffer from associated pain, urinary symptoms, fever or genital swelling.
The blood is accompanied by dramatic urinary changes: urogenital urgency, urination frequency or inability to urinate.
You’ve just suffered a pelvic trauma.
Treatment Options
Treatment for hematospermia largely depends on the underlying problem. Here are some general approaches:
1. Observation
If hematospermia is either idiopathic (ie, untraceable) or benign, then it may disappear without treatment.
2. Medications
The infection may be treated with antibiotics or antivirals that eradicate the underlying infection.
3. Management of Prostate Conditions
Prostatitis or any other problem can be managed by using anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics, or other treatments if necessary.
4. Surgical Interventions
If it’s severe enough, particularly when tumors or structural changes are involved, it might be time to have surgery to resolve the problem.
5. Lifestyle Changes
For men who suffer from vascular problems or who are at high risk for prostate disease, lifestyle changes such as better nutrition, exercise and fewer alcohol and tobacco consumption can lessen symptoms.
Conclusion: Blood In Semen
Semen with blood is an alarming symptom, but finding out about its potential causes and possible cures can be the difference between anxiety and panic. Although hematospermia is rarely serious, it may occasionally signal more serious medical problems that need medical attention. If you see blood in your sex, especially if other symptoms accompany it, get an evaluation from a doctor for comfort. Don’t be afraid to take care of yourself, your body and your soul, and to ask for help when you need it.
