Discolored semen: What does it mean?

Semen is typically a white-gray color. Changes in semen color are often for just a short time and usually are harmless. But sometimes, semen color changes could be a sign you need to see a healthcare professional.

Possible causes of semen color changes, by color, include:

• Red semen. Eating a lot of red-colored foods, such as beets, could cause red semen. Sometimes, red or red-streaked semen could mean blood is present. Possible causes of blood in semen may be infection, radiation treatment, or trauma from surgery or injury to the testicles. Even though seeing pink or red semen may be alarming, it’s usually not caused by something concerning, especially in younger men.
• Yellow or green semen. Semen can look more yellow as a person gets older. Other causes could be an infection, jaundice, or a side effect of taking medicine that turns the semen yellow or green.
• Brown or black semen. Semen that is black or brown commonly means old blood is present. Possible causes include a spinal cord injury, an infection or exposure to heavy metals, such as lead or nickel.

If the change in your semen color is a new sign and goes on for more than a week, talk to your healthcare professional.