Contents
Hematospermia: Should You Be Worried About Bloody Semen?
Published: Jun 16, 2024
Hematospermia, or bloody semen, is a rare condition often alarming to those who experience it, but it is usually harmless. This article explores the causes, evaluation, and treatment options for hematospermia.
What Causes Hematospermia?
The most common cause of hematospermia is undergoing a prostate biopsy, affecting over 80% of men post-procedure. Other causes include radiation therapy for prostate cancer, vasectomy, and infections like sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In men over 40, genitourinary cancers are considered, though they are rare.
How Is It Evaluated?
A thorough evaluation of hematospermia includes a medical history, physical examination, and urinalysis. Further tests, like transrectal ultrasound, are recommended if the condition persists for over a month. In older men, a more detailed evaluation might be considered due to a slightly higher risk of prostate cancer.
Treatment and Management Strategies
Most cases of hematospermia resolve on their own without specific treatment. Reassurance is crucial, especially if the condition follows a procedure like a prostate biopsy. If an infection or other treatable condition is found, appropriate treatment should be administered.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is almost never a sign of cancer, especially in younger patients.
It typically lasts three to four weeks.
No, extensive evaluation is usually not needed unless symptoms persist.
Yes, most cases resolve spontaneously without treatment.
There is a slightly higher risk in men over 50.
Key Takeaways
While hematospermia can be alarming, it is typically harmless and resolves on its own.
References
- Ahmad I, Krishna NS. Hemospermia. J Urol 2007; 177:1613.
- Raaijmakers R, Kirkels WJ, Roobol MJ, et al. Complication rates and risk factors of 5802 transrectal ultrasound-guided sextant biopsies of the prostate. Urology 2002; 60:826.
- Moman MR, van der Heide UA, Kotte AN, et al. Long-term experience with transrectal and transperineal implantations. Radiother Oncol 2010; 96:38.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?