What Causes Blood in a Woman’s Urine?

Under normal circumstances, red blood cells (RBCs) are absent in urine. If RBCs are detected only under microscopic examination—without visible discoloration of the urine to the naked eye—the condition is termed “microscopic hematuria.” Conversely, if the urine appears visibly reddish, pinkish, or brownish, or contains blood clots or thread-like strands of blood, it is classified as “gross hematuria.” So, what causes blood-colored urine in women? Below, we address this question.

Causes of Blood-Colored Urine in Women

1. Urinary Tract Stones

Blood-colored urine may result from urinary tract stones—most commonly kidney stones, ureteral stones, or bladder stones. Kidney and ureteral stones typically present with renal colic and hematuria. Bladder stones often develop when kidney stones migrate into the bladder. The presence of stones can cause significant trauma to the bladder mucosa, leading to hematuria. This is frequently accompanied by severe pain; therefore, such symptoms warrant prompt medical attention in daily life.

2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Blood-colored urine may also stem from a urinary tract infection. If left untreated, a UTI can progress and lead to hematuria. Experts therefore emphasize the importance of timely medical evaluation and treatment for any suspected urinary system disorder. Moreover, certain kidney diseases—including chronic glomerulonephritis and hereditary nephritis—can likewise cause hematuria. Prompt diagnosis and management are thus strongly recommended.

3. Nephritis

Nephritis refers to a group of kidney disorders characterized by inflammatory damage to the renal tubules and surrounding tissues, resulting in kidney injury. Clinical manifestations vary across subtypes but often overlap and may include edema, hypertension, hematuria, proteinuria, and impaired renal function. For patients with concurrent infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection. Hypertensive patients require antihypertensive medications, while those with edema may benefit from diuretic therapy.

The above outlines potential causes of blood-colored urine in women. We hope this information proves helpful.