Bleeding from the scrotal area can be alarming. While some instances are minor, others can indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate medical evaluation.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you observe bleeding from the scrotal area, focus on controlling it and maintaining cleanliness. Begin by gently cleaning the affected area with mild soap and warm water to remove any visible blood or debris. Avoid harsh scrubbing or using alcohol-based products, as these can irritate the skin and delay healing.
Next, apply direct, firm pressure to the source of the bleeding using a clean cloth or gauze for a sustained period of three to five minutes. The scrotal area has a rich blood supply, so even minor cuts can bleed more than expected. Applying pressure helps to constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. If possible, elevating the area can also assist in reducing blood flow to the site.
Consider applying a cold compress, such as an ice pack wrapped in a cloth, to the area for 10 to 20 minutes. This can help reduce swelling and further constrict blood vessels. Wearing snug-fitting underwear or a scrotal support can provide gentle compression and support to the injured area.
When to Seek Professional Medical Attention
You should seek emergency medical care if the bleeding is heavy, persistent despite applying pressure for 10 minutes, or if it is accompanied by severe pain. Sudden, serious pain, especially with nausea, fever, or blood in the urine, could indicate a twisted testicle, known as testicular torsion, which requires immediate treatment to prevent damage.
Professional medical attention is also necessary if you experience significant swelling or disfigurement of the scrotum or testicles. Other indicators include difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, or a discharge from the penis. Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever, warrant a doctor’s visit.
Any penetrating injury to the scrotum, or if the bleeding results from a significant trauma, should prompt an immediate medical consultation. If pain persists for more than an hour or worsens despite home care, or if you notice a lump or change in the appearance or position of a testicle, medical assessment is important. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent complications.
Potential Reasons for Bleeding
Often, it results from minor cuts or abrasions, such as those sustained during shaving or from friction. Ingrown hairs or folliculitis, an infection of hair follicles, can also lead to localized bleeding.
Trauma to the area, such as a direct impact, can cause bruising (contusion) or the pooling of blood under the skin, known as a hematoma. While minor bruises often heal with home care, larger hematomas may require medical evaluation. Certain benign vascular growths on the scrotal skin, called angiokeratomas, can also bleed, particularly after friction or sexual activity.
Infections, such as epididymitis, which is inflammation of the coiled tube behind the testicle, can cause scrotal pain and swelling, and in some cases, blood in the semen. While less common, more serious underlying conditions like testicular torsion, where the testicle twists and cuts off its blood supply, or a testicular rupture can also present with bleeding and severe pain. It is important to remember that self-diagnosis is not advisable, and a medical professional can determine the precise cause of bleeding.