Why does my semen appear brown?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have been ejaculating brown semen for the past year, and on two occasions, there was fresh blood. I am not particularly sexually active (probably only ejaculate once every couple of months on average). I have been to the doctor for this issue three times, and each time I have taken a urine test, with no abnormalities, except the last urine analysis shows some traces of blood. I have asked for a PSA test the last two times, but have been told that maybe there is some infection and to wait three months to take the blood test. I have had a history of varicocele.
Please help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I went through your query and understood your concern.
Brown semen generally tends to indicate that there is some hemorrhage in the seminal vesicles, which is where the ejaculate is stored and passes through. Infections do not tend to cause discolored ejaculate at least not brown ones. This would need an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a transrectal ultrasound to properly diagnose.
With regards to the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test, if your urine is not showing any pus cells, there is no infection and you can proceed with a PSA test straightaway. Also, if there is a hemorrhage in the seminal vesicles as I presume it to be, you do need to ejaculate at least two to three times a week as that is a very good way of clearing out the stagnant ejaculate.
Please help me with a few other details so that I understand the issue better:
1. How long have you had this issue for?
2. Are you diabetic or hypertensive?
3. Have you had any surgeries in the past?
4. Is there any history of trauma to the perineal area?
5. Do you have any trouble passing urine such as increased frequency, urgency, straining to pass urine, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying?
6. Have you ever seen visible blood in your urine?
Please revert with the details and any other questions that you may have and I will do my best to assist you.
Hope it helps.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thanks for your reply.
I have suffered from this issue for the past year. I suffer from high blood pressure. I had undergone an appendectomy. There has been no trauma to the perineal area. I have not seen any visible blood in my urine.
Please help.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
You need to get the following tests done so that we know what we are dealing with :
1. Transrectal ultrasound or MRI of the pelvis (MRI is more ideal).
2. Serum PSA.
3. Uroflowmetry with post-void residual.
4. Semen for culture and sensitivity.
While you get these tests done, please follow the below-mentioned instructions:
1. Drink plenty of water daily.
2. Ejaculate at least two to three times a week.
3. Avoid prolonged sitting periods.
Please revert to me with the test results so that we can decide what needs to be done next.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
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