Although semen is often a whitish-gray color, some men may have a reproductive cell that is yellow. However, if the reproductive cell represents a significant color change for a man, this could be a cause for concern.
According to MedicalNewsToday, some potential triggers associated with yellow semen include:
1. Urine in the semen: Semen journeys through the urethra, which is the same tube that urine journeys through. It is possible that some yellow-tinted pee can mix with the male reproductive cell, which would give it a yellow tint or cast.
2. Jaundice: This happens when the liver is struggling to break down bilirubin, a by-product of red blood cell destruction. Jaundice most commonly triggers yellowing of the eyes but can make the skin and the semen appear yellow also.
3. Abnormally high white blood cells: Inflammation can create excess white blood cells. These can be discharged through the semen, a condition called pyospermia or leukocytospermia. Additional white blood cells can make semen appear yellow. These may be the result of an infection.
4. STIs: A sexually transmitted infection (STIs), like chlamydia, herpes, or gonorrhea triggers yellow semen. In this case, a man’s semen can also have an unpleasant smell.
5. Dietary changes: Consuming foods that contain dyes can induce yellow semen. The smell of reproductive cells may also change if a man consumes strong-smelling foods, like garlic, onions, asparagus, or broccoli.