Finding blood coming from your penis can be alarming, but it's not always a sign of a serious problem. However, it's crucial to understand the potential causes and know when to seek medical attention.
To shed light on this sensitive topic, we spoke with Dr. Abhishek Kumar Shah, one of Libertee's expert consultants. He provided valuable insights into the causes of penile bleeding and what you can do about it.
What Could Cause Bleeding from the Penis?
Dr. Abhishek outlines several potential causes:
- Injury or Trauma: Accidents, rough sexual activity, or medical procedures like prostate biopsies or vasectomies can cause bleeding.
- Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs), prostatitis, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia can lead to bleeding, often accompanied by pain or a burning sensation during urination.
- Prostate Conditions: An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) or prostate cancer can cause blood in the urine or semen.
- Kidney or Bladder Issues: Kidney stones, bladder infections, or bladder cancer can sometimes result in blood in the urine.
- Other Causes: Rarely, conditions like penile cancer, urethral tumors, or blood clotting disorders may cause bleeding. Chronic health conditions such as hypertension or liver disease can also contribute.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
"If the bleeding persists or the pain is severe, immediate medical attention is necessary," Dr. Abhishek advises. "Symptoms like fever, nausea, intense pain, or difficulty urinating indicate a potentially serious condition."
"Blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia) also warrants immediate consultation with a urologist."
"If you can't see a doctor right away, gently wipe away the blood with a soft towel. Avoid applying pressure to the penis or shaft."
How Is the Cause of Bleeding Diagnosed?
"I begin with a physical exam to check for external injuries or abnormalities," Dr. Abhishek explains. "A urinalysis or blood test can identify infections. Imaging tests like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs may be necessary to examine internal organs for issues like tumors or kidney stones."
"A digital rectal exam or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is recommended to check for prostate-related conditions."
What Are My Treatment Options?
"Treatment depends on the underlying cause," Dr. Abhishek states:
- Infections: Antibiotics are prescribed for UTIs, prostatitis, or STIs.
- Injuries: Minor injuries may heal naturally, while severe injuries may require surgery.
- Prostate Issues: Medications like finasteride can manage an enlarged prostate, while cancer treatments may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
- Kidney Stones: Treatment may involve increased fluid intake, medication, or procedures like lithotripsy.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help Prevent Bleeding?
"Yes, definitely," Dr. Abhishek emphasizes. "Use barrier methods like condoms to reduce infection risk. Avoid rough sexual activity. Drink plenty of water to prevent UTIs and kidney stones. Regular checkups can help detect and manage potential issues early."
Is Blood in Semen Always a Cause for Concern?
"Not necessarily," Dr. Abhishek explains. "Hematospermia often resolves on its own, especially if it's a one-time occurrence. However, persistent blood or accompanying symptoms require a medical consultation."
Prioritize Penile Health
Many men neglect basic penile health and hygiene. For expert guidance on maintaining penile health, find our guide here. For a personal consultation with Dr. Abhishek, click here.