Last Updated on 18th July 2024 by Charlie Walsh
When it comes to sexual health, there’s a lot to consider; STIs, yeast infections, UTIs, pregnancy, even chafing! One aspect that’s less talked about is the colour of semen, but we’re sure you’ve at least once wondered, “What colour should semen be?” or “Is my semen colour normal?”
So, let’s answer that all-important question: what colour should semen be? Let’s take a look.
What is Normal Semen Colour?
Before we take a closer look at the various hues your semen might take on, let’s establish what’s considered normal:
Healthy Semen Colour
Typically, healthy semen is whitish, greyish, or even a pale yellow colour. It’s often described as having a consistency similar to jelly or a runny egg white. However, it’s important to note that what’s normal can vary slightly from person to person.
Factors Affecting Semen Colour
Several factors can influence the colour of your semen, including diet, hydration levels, frequency of ejaculation, and overall health. For instance, if you’re curious about how your diet might affect not just the colour but also the taste of your semen, you might want to check out our article on tips on how to improve semen taste.
Understanding Different Semen Colours
Now, let’s explore what different semen colours might indicate about your health.
White or Grey Semen
This is typically considered normal and healthy, so if your semen falls within this colour range, there’s usually no cause for concern.
Yellow or Green Semen
While a pale yellow might be normal for some men, a more pronounced yellow or green colour could indicate an infection, such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or prostatitis.
Red or Pink Semen
The presence of blood in semen, known as hematospermia, can cause it to appear red or pink. This can be alarming, but rest assured that it’s not always a sign of a serious problem. It could be due to inflammation, infection, or even vigorous sexual activity.
Brown or Rust-coloured Semen
This could be a sign of older blood in the semen, possibly from a previous injury or infection.
Clear Semen
Completely clear semen might indicate a low sperm count or could simply be the result of frequent ejaculation.
Causes of Abnormal Semen Colours
So, what can cause semen colour to change?
Infections
As mentioned above, various infections, including STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, can alter semen colour. These infections often require medical treatment, so it’s important to get checked if you suspect an infection.
Injuries
Trauma to the reproductive organs or prostate can lead to blood in the semen, causing it to appear red, pink, or brown.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain foods, medications, and supplements can affect semen colour. For example, foods with strong pigments like beetroot or artificial food colouring might temporarily alter the colour of your semen.
Medical Conditions
Conditions affecting the prostate or other parts of the reproductive system can sometimes cause changes in semen colour.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While temporary changes in semen colour aren’t always cause for concern, there are times when you should consult a healthcare professional.
Persistent Colour Changes
If you notice a change in colour that lasts for more than a few days or keeps recurring, it’s worth getting checked out.
Accompanying Symptoms
If the colour change is accompanied by pain, discomfort, or other unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Semen Colour
While you can’t always control the colour of your semen, there are steps you can take to promote overall reproductive health.
Healthy Diet and Hydration
Healthy eating can be boring, but studies have shown that eating a balanced diet and staying well-hydrated can contribute to healthier semen, as well as higher sperm count and improved libido.
Regular Exercise
Physical activity can also improve your overall health, and this includes your reproductive and sexual health.
Avoiding Harmful Substances
While cutting out these elements entirely can be difficult, it’s a good idea to limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking, as these can negatively impact semen quality.
Good Hygiene Practices
Maintaining good personal hygiene can help prevent infections that might affect semen colour.
The Bottom Line
At Bathmate, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal sexual health and performance. And while our high quality penis pumps are designed primarily for enhancement, we believe that overall sexual health is just as important.
So when it comes to sperm colour, the key is to be aware of your own baseline and to notice any significant changes. And if you’re ever in doubt about your semen colour or any other aspect of your sexual health, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional.
