Hemospermia or blood in the semen

Hemospermia, also called hematospermia, it is the medical term used to describe the presence of blood in man's semen. It is a situation that, when it happens, usually alarms and worries the sufferer.

It is more frequent than it seems and can appear at any age. However, it is not known very well how many men it affects, since many do not consult the doctor when it happens to them.

Usually, In 75% of cases, hemospermia appears as a single, benign and self-limited condition.. That is, it resolves on its own and only occurs once. However, this depends on the cause that caused it.

Many times men confuse the blood in the semen with the blood present in the urine, which usually involves different pathologies, or with blood coming from your sexual partner. Therefore, it is important to calm down and look carefully at all the details.

Although, as we have already mentioned, hemospermia is not usually seriousIn this article we explain everything you need to know about it, why it can happen and what you should do if it happens to you.

Why does hemospermia occur?

To understand why hemospermia occurs, we have to first know a little how the male genital tract works. Semen is a liquid that forms thanks to three different glands:

In addition, semen, on its way from the testicles to the urethra, passes through a series of ducts. Any alteration, such as an inflammatory process or infection In this path, you can make hemospermia appear.

The main causes They are:

• Alterations of the prostate. First, it should be noted that the most common cause of hemospermia is the performance of a prostate biopsy. This procedure is performed for the detection of prostate cancer. However, an infection, a benign tumor or a vascular alteration of the prostate can also cause blood in the semen.
• Problems in seminal vesicles. Any infection in these glands is also associated with hemospermia. As in the prostate, a tumor could also cause the presence of blood.
• Any urethral lesion. This includes urethritis, which is an inflammation of the urethra. Normally, it is caused by a sexually transmitted disease. There may even be polyps or cysts in the urethra that also cause hemospermia.
• Traumas or blows in the testicular or penile area.

In some cases, hemospermia may be associated with a systemic disease, such as hypertension. In fact, people with coagulation problems, such as patients with von Willebrand disease, can suffer from it.

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What tests are done before hemospermia?

It is important to note that, although we have already explained the most pathological main causes, many patients do not present any of these causes, Especially the youngest.

In those under 40, we usually try to rule out that there is an infection. To do this, the patient is asked about his sexual activity and if he suffers pain in any area. It is also necessary to investigate if you have had a fever.

On the other hand, When it comes to a person over 45 years old, it is convenient to think that it can be a carcinogenic process. Numerous studies show that from this age it is very common that there is a prostate tumor, either malignant or benign.

Therefore, there are certain complementary tests that can help us in the diagnosis. First, an adequate examination of the penis and the entire genital tract should be performed male.

Further, it is essential to perform a complete blood test and a study of sexually transmitted diseases. For this, a semen culture can be done. Thus, we can eliminate the possibility of gonorrhea urethritis, for example.

In the case of patients older than 45 years, the study is usually more intensive. An ultrasound, a rectal touch to palpate the prostate and blood PSA levels are usually requested.

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In conclusion

Hemospermia is the presence of blood in the semen. Most of the time it happens only once and has no pathological cause. That should worry us.

However, it may be due to an infection or, in the case of those over 45, a prostate problem. Thus, It is important to consult with the doctor if you have any questions.