Discoloured semen may differ in appearance. The typical
appearance of sperm is whitish, cloudy fluid. Any deviation from this normal appearance, whether change in color or consistency may denote an underlying problem. It is important to note that semen color and consistency can vary depending on factors such as, frequency of ejaculation, age and diet.In most cases, the exact cause is not distinguished. Although discoloured semen is not generally treated as a medical emergency, it may be caused by an infection or a medical condition.
Semen is the cloudy, white body fluid that is released from the urethra of the penis during ejaculation. The semen contains sperm, which is necessary for fertilization to occur. The semen is created in a series of steps in the male reproductive system. Sperm is initially created in the seminiferous tubules found in the testes, which eventually travel to the epididymis for maturation and storage. When it is time for ejaculation, typically due to stimulation, the mature sperm will migrate from the epididymis through the vas deferens reaching the ejaculatory ducts where the fructose-alkali liquid secretion from the seminal vesicles mixes with the sperm giving it its whitish-gray appearance. The mixture will then pass through the prostate gland mixing the milky prostatic fluid. This is the basic composition of the semen (University of Pennsylvania Health System, 2013)
Causes of Discoloured Semen
It is not completely irregular to have discoloured semen infrequently. These can be considered normal. In some cases, it may also signify any of the following conditions or illnesses:
- Infection of the prostate, urethra or any of the organs in the genitourinary tract, including sexually transmitted infections
- Bleeding from the genitourinary tract
- Medical conditions such as leukemia, hypertension, etc.
- Certain medications such as antibiotics
- Abnormalities in the genitourinary tract
- Hormone deficiencies
- Trauma to the groin area
- Presence of urine in the semen
When to Seek Medical Attention with Regard to Discoloured Semen
Changes in semen appearance are usually not permanent and not typically a medical concern. However, if any of the following symptoms accompany discoloured semen, it may signify a problem.
- Yellow, green or gold semen
- Change in consistency to jelly-like or thick and lumpy
- Change lasts for more than a week or two
- Pain upon ejaculation or when urinating
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Sexual dysfunction
- Fever
- Lower back pain
Treatment for Discoloured Semen
Treatment for discoloured semen will depend on its underlying condition.
- Avoid strenuous activity.
- If caused by trauma, ice the affected area and take over-the-counter pain medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
- If one eats a high protein diet, try to reduce protein in the diet. The same can be done in diets with high vitamin B. Cut down on caffeine, alcohol and spicy food.
- If it is caused by taking certain antibiotics, ask the doctor for advice.
Disclaimer: This article does not provide medical advice or treatment. The
information given should not be used for self-diagnosis of the possible underlying medical conditions. Seek medical attention when necessary. A keen eye for symptoms is necessary in all medical situations. To learn more aboutdiscoloured semen and other abnormal discharges in the body, enrol in First Aid Courses with workplace approved training.
Source:
Sperm Production (2013). University of Pennsylvania Health System. Retrieved September 20, 2013, from http://www.pennmedicine.org/encyclopedia/em_DisplayAnimation.aspx?gcid=000120&ptid=17