Although it’s worrisome to see blood in your semen, it’s usually not a symptom of a serious health problem. It’s rarely the first symptom of a genitourinary cancer. See your healthcare provider to get an exam, any needed tests, discuss your concerns and get reassurance.
The presence of blood in your semen is known medically as hematospermia (also called hemospermia). Hematospermia may naturally cause concern for men who experience it. However, it is not likely to be a sign of a major health problem.
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It’s not clear how common the symptom of blood in semen is because men usually do not examine their semen after ejaculation.
Having blood in your semen can affect men of any age, but it is more common in men aged 30 to 40.
No, seeing blood in your semen is not normal, but it could be a result of:
Although it’s frightening to see blood in your semen, it’s rarely a symptom of a major health problem. A single episode of blood in your semen is usually not a sign of cancer. However, you may still want to see your healthcare provider to be reassured, to fully discuss this symptom and get an exam and perhaps other tests if your provider thinks they’re needed.
The most likely cause of blood in semen are:
Other potential causes or associated conditions may include:
Your healthcare provider will:
Your healthcare provider may order one or more of these tests:
The results of your exam and tests may not show the cause of blood in your semen. Your provider may refer you to a urologist (a doctor who specializes in the urinary tract and male reproductive organs) if your initial evaluation and urinalysis are not normal or if blood in your semen in present for longer than a month. Your urologist may order some or all of the following tests:
Treatment is based on extent and duration of the presence of blood in your semen, your age and presence of other symptoms.
If you are under the age of 40, have no urinary tract symptoms, have no risk factors for other medical conditions, and there’s been only a single episode of blood in your semen, you’ll likely not need any treatment. The symptom will resolve on its own.
If a cause for blood in your semen is identified, your provider will prescribe appropriate treatments, including:
If other underlying causes are determined, appropriate treatment should be given.
It’s always wise to be safe and see your healthcare provider any time you develop a new symptom, especially one that’s as alarming as blood in your semen. It’s usually not a serious health issue. However, do see your provider if you see blood in your semen and additional symptoms.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/09/2021.
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