Spotting blood in your semen can be a worrisome experience. However, it’s important to understand that there are various reasons why this could occur, ranging from minor issues to more serious underlying conditions.

In this article, we will delve into the 8 likely causes of blood in semen, accompanied by photos to help you better understand and identify potential causes.

1. Hematospermia

Hematospermia, also known as blood in semen, is the medical term used to describe the presence of blood in ejaculate. While it can be alarming, the condition is often harmless and self-resolves within a few weeks.

Hematospermia is commonly caused by inflammation or infection of the prostate gland or seminal vesicles.

2. Infections

Infections in the genital tract can lead to blood in the semen. Common culprits include sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes.

These infections can cause inflammation and irritation, resulting in blood mixed with semen.

3. Prostate Inflammation

Prostatitis, which is inflammation of the prostate gland, can lead to the presence of blood in semen. This condition can be caused by bacterial infections, but it can also occur without a known infection.

Prostate inflammation can cause discomfort and urinary symptoms in addition to blood in semen.

4. Prostate Biopsy or Surgery

If you have recently undergone a prostate biopsy or surgery, it is not uncommon to notice blood in your semen afterward. This blood is a result of the procedure and should subside within a few weeks.

However, if the bleeding persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider.

5. Trauma

A recent injury or trauma to the genital area can cause blood to appear in semen.

Whether due to a sports injury, accident, or other physical trauma, the presence of blood in semen following such an event is usually temporary and not a cause for major concern. However, if the bleeding persists or is accompanied by severe pain, seeking medical attention is recommended.

6. Urethral Stricture

A urethral stricture occurs when the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body, becomes narrow or blocked. This can lead to difficulty urinating, blood in the urine or semen, and other related symptoms.

Urethral strictures are typically caused by scarring from previous infections or injuries.

7. Seminal Vesicle Cysts

Seminal vesicle cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the seminal vesicles, the organs responsible for producing a significant portion of semen. While often asymptomatic, these cysts can occasionally cause blood in the semen.

If symptoms arise or if the cyst becomes large, medical intervention may be necessary.

8. Cancer

In rare cases, blood in semen can be a sign of prostate cancer or other genitourinary cancers. While this is uncommon, it is important to be aware of the possibility.

If blood in the semen persists, is accompanied by pain, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying serious conditions.