UNDERSTANDING UROLOGY
Blood in urine or semen
Blood in the urine can look pink, red or brown, or may only be found on a test. It is often caused by infection or stones, but it can also be an early sign of cancer, so it should always be checked – even if it happens only once. Blood in the semen is usually not serious and often settles by itself, but it should also be checked.
What you may notice
- Pink, red or cola-coloured urine
- Blood clots in the urine
- Blood found on a urine test
- Pink, red or brown semen
- Note: beetroot and some medicines can also change the colour of urine
Get help quickly if
- Any blood in the urine – arrange an appointment promptly, even if it has stopped or there is no pain
- You cannot pass urine because of clots – this is an emergency
- Blood with a fever, severe pain or vomiting – seek help the same day
In an emergency in Kuwait, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
How it is usually assessed
- Urine and blood tests, including kidney function
- An examination, including of the prostate in men
- A scan of the kidneys and bladder (ultrasound or CT)
- A cystoscopy – a thin camera passed into the bladder
- For blood in the semen: tests for infection, a prostate examination, and further tests if it keeps happening or you have other symptoms
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause: antibiotics for infection, treatment for stones, medicines or procedures for an enlarged prostate, or specialist treatment if cancer is found. Blood in the semen often needs no treatment once serious causes have been ruled out.
What you can do
- Do not wait to see whether it happens again – book a check
- Note when it happened, its colour, and any other symptoms, to discuss at your appointment
Based on NHS patient information: nhs.uk/conditions/blood-in-urine/ · nhs.uk/conditions/blood-in-semen/
This page is general information, not a personal medical assessment. Speak with a clinician about your own situation before starting or changing any treatment.