Blood in semen (haematospermia)

It's unusual to find blood in your semen when you ejaculate, but try not to worry – it's usually only temporary and the cause is rarely anything serious.


This page is intended to give you a better idea of the possible causes, but you shouldn't use it to diagnose yourself with a condition – always see your GP for a proper diagnosis.

In many cases, no obvious cause can be found for blood in the semen and it will clear up by itself.

Common causes

Common causes of blood in semen include:

These problems generally aren't serious and many will get better on their own without treatment, or after a course of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory painkillers.

Less common causes


These conditions are more serious and may require specialist treatment.

Seeing your GP


They'll need to consider a number of things, such as:

  • how many times you've noticed blood in your semen
  • whether you have any other symptoms
  • your age
  • your medical history


  • checking your blood pressure
  • an examination of your genitals and abdomen (tummy)
  • a rectal examination (where your doctor inserts a finger into your bottom)
  • urine and blood tests

If you're younger than 40, have only noticed blood in your semen once or twice, and tests don't suggest you have a serious underlying condition, you shouldn't need a hospital referral.

However, if you're over 40, have persistent or recurrent symptoms, or tests have suggested a potentially serious underlying cause, your GP should refer you to a urologist (specialist who treats problems of the urinary system).


Treating blood in semen



If a clear reason is identified, the treatment you're offered will depend on the specific cause. For example, you may be given antibiotics to treat an infection and cysts may need to be drained with a needle.


Page last reviewed: 19/07/2016
Next review due: 19/07/2019