Differential Diagnosis for Semen Smelling Fishy
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bacterial vaginosis or other infections in the partner: This is often associated with a fishy odor in the semen after ejaculation, due to the exchange of bodily fluids during sexual intercourse.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary tract infection (UTI): A UTI can cause a strong, unpleasant odor in the urine and semen.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can lead to changes in semen odor, including a fishy smell.
- Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm, can cause changes in semen odor.
- Poor hygiene: Infrequent showering or bathing, especially after engaging in sexual activity, can contribute to a fishy odor in the semen.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia: These infections can cause changes in semen odor and are important to diagnose and treat to prevent long-term complications.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to changes in bodily fluids, including semen, which may result in a strong, unpleasant odor.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD): A rare genetic disorder that can cause a sweet, maple syrup-like odor in urine and semen.
- Trimethylaminuria: A rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to break down trimethylamine, a compound found in certain foods, which can cause a strong, fishy odor in bodily fluids, including semen.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as those used to treat cancer or HIV, can cause changes in semen odor as a side effect.