AboutArthur Goldstein, M.D. Expertise Any problems or questions related to the field of urology; ie urinary stone disease, urinary cancers (kidney, bladder, prostate, testis, etc.), urinary infections, impotency, etc.
Experience I am retired from the active practice of urology. My 34 years was totally in the clinical field and involved the entire gamut of genitourinary problems, with special interest in male impotence and endourology.
Organizations American Medical Association, American Urological Association, American College of Surgeons
Question Hello. My name is Mr. Kim C. Gossett. I am 53 years old and in relatively good shape. I recently had my first prostate exam. I noticed a few months ago some slight traces of blood in my semen after having had intimacy time with my wife, who is 37. The Doctor feels I have prostititus. My question is. Can blood in the semen hinder pregnancy? My wife and I are praying for a child. Thank you. San Jose, Calif. USA
Answer Kim, blood in the semen is called hematospermia. It is due to a tear in one of the fragile veins of the prostate gland. The prostate is the organ that produces the majority of the seminal fluid in response to sexual stimulation. Irritation of the gland (prostatitis) can cause it to become inflamed and predisposed to bleed. Some factors leading to inflammation include too frequent or too infrequent ejaculation, sexual arousal without ejaculation, withdraw at the time of ejaculation, excessive alcohol or spicy foods, prolonged sitting or bike riding, etc. The prostate may then become secondarily infected and require antibiotic therapy for cure. When the prostate contracts at the time of ejaculation, a vein may tear and blood mixes with the semen. Red blood indicates new and dark discoloration indicates previous bleeding. Sometimes as the prostate gradually enlarges with age, friable veins called varices develop on its surface. These are also prone to tearing. In this case, hematospermia may occur or one may notice blood in the urine either with initiation of voiding or terminally. Hematospermia is not a typical sign of prostate cancer. However, it was wise to check with your urologist to evaluate the condition. Hematospermia per se does not affect your fertility potential. A severe infection in the prostate occasionally may temporarily lower the semen count which reverts to normal after treatment. If you are still concerned, ask your doctor to do a semen analysis to see if it is normal. Good luck!
