Hematospermia. Blood in the semen, a common occurrence that is usually benign and frequently resolves on its own.
Causes of Blood in Semen (Hematospermia):
- Benign Causes:
- Ruptured Blood Vessels: A small blood vessel in the prostate or seminal vesicles may rupture during ejaculation.
Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs), sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs), or prostate infections can cause inflammation and bleeding.
Trauma: Injury to the reproductive organs can lead to bleeding.
Medications: Certain medications can cause bleeding, including blood thinners.
Procedures: Recent prostate biopsy or other procedures can cause temporary bleeding.
Less Common, but Serious Causes:
- Prostate Cancer: In rare cases, blood in semen can be a symptom of prostate cancer, especially in older men.
Other Cancers: Testicular cancer or other cancers in the genitourinary tract can also cause hematospermia.
Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia): An enlarged prostate can cause irritation and bleeding.
Blood Vessel Problems: Conditions like high blood pressure or blood vessel abnormalities can lead to bleeding.
Blockages: Blockages in the ejaculatory ducts or cysts in the prostate or seminal vesicles can cause bleeding.