SYMPTOMS

What is yellow semen?

Normal semen appears milky white, light yellow, or colorless. The color of semen should be observed immediately after ejaculation. When semen appears brownish-yellow or yellow, it is considered yellow semen^[1].

Yellow semen is primarily caused by inflammation of the reproductive tract. Additionally, some physiological factors, such as prolonged abstinence, can also lead to yellow semen.

Semen is a secretion from the male reproductive system, typically expelled from the urethra during orgasm. Semen mainly consists of sperm and seminal plasma. Seminal plasma provides energy and an environment for sperm survival, accounting for 90% of semen volume. It is primarily composed of seminal vesicle fluid (50%–80%), prostatic fluid (15%–30%), bulbourethral gland fluid (2%–3%), and urethral gland fluid (2%–3%)^[1].

TREATMENT

How to Alleviate and Prevent Yellow Semen?

Yellow semen is primarily caused by inflammation of the reproductive tract. Additionally, certain physiological factors, such as prolonged abstinence, can also lead to yellowish semen. No special treatment is required for physiological causes. However, if a reproductive system infection is present, standardized, sufficient, and full-course antibiotic treatment (e.g., levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, etc.) is necessary^[2].

In daily life, the following measures can help prevent or alleviate reproductive tract infections:

1. Lifestyle:
   • Avoid prolonged cycling, horseback riding, or sitting for long periods;
   • Control the frequency of sexual activity—neither excessive nor insufficient, depending on personal health and physical condition;
   • Men without fertility needs may take warm sitz baths;
   • Maintain genital hygiene by washing daily and changing underwear;
   • Avoid unprotected or unsafe sexual activity.
2. Diet:
   • Drink plenty of water—recommended daily intake is around 2500 mL—to promote urination and flush the urethra, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections;
   • Follow a light diet, including fresh vegetables and fruits (e.g., cabbage, oranges, apples) daily; consume protein sources like chicken and fish, while avoiding fried or grilled foods;
   • Avoid spicy foods (e.g., chili peppers, mustard, raw garlic), as they may irritate the urinary tract mucosa and hinder recovery;
   • Quit smoking and alcohol, as they weaken immunity and increase susceptibility to infections^[3].

DIAGNOSIS

When should you seek medical attention for yellow semen?

The following symptoms may indicate an underlying medical condition and require prompt medical evaluation:

1. Yellow semen accompanied by discomfort during urination, soreness, or a feeling of heaviness in the perineum or penis;
2. Yellow semen with a foul or fishy odor;
3. Pain during ejaculation, along with traces of blood;
4. Persistent yellow semen that does not improve with lifestyle adjustments^[1];
5. Yellow semen combined with visible yellowing of the eyes or skin^[4].

POTENTIAL DISEASES

What Causes Yellow Semen?

Yellow semen does not necessarily indicate a problem. The causes can be divided into physiological and pathological factors:

1. Physiological: Prolonged abstinence (no specific time frame) can alter the physicochemical properties of seminal vesicle fluid and prostatic fluid stored in the seminal vesicles and prostate, leading to a yellowish semen color.
2. Pathological: Infections of the reproductive system, such as prostatitis or seminal vesiculitis, may result in purulent semen, causing it to appear yellow^[1]. Jaundice caused by liver or biliary tract diseases can also lead to yellow semen, along with yellowing of the eyes, skin, and urine^[4].