Groin pain and blood in urine: what to know

Blood may be visible as pink, red or brown urine, or found only on a urine test. Pain can travel from the side or lower abdomen into the groin when a kidney stone moves through the urinary tract. Burning urine, urgency, fever or feeling unwell can occur with a urinary tract or kidney infection. Prostatitis may cause pelvic or groin discomfort alongside urinary symptoms. An enlarged prostate can also affect urine flow. Less common but important causes include bladder or prostate cancer and sickle cell disease. Blood in urine does not by itself identify the cause.

Arrange a GP consultation or urgent medical assessment, especially if the blood is visible, the pain is new, or symptoms are recurring. A clinician may ask when the pain began, where it travels, whether urine flow has changed, and whether you have fever or discharge. Testing can include a urine sample, blood tests and imaging when indicated. Keep hydrated unless a clinician has told you to restrict fluids, and do not take leftover antibiotics. Note the urine colour, clots, pain pattern and medicines you use.

Seek urgent care now for severe or rapidly worsening pain, fever or chills, vomiting, confusion, fainting, inability to pass urine, or heavy bleeding or clots. These features can signal infection, obstruction or significant blood loss and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask which tests are needed, whether a stone or infection is suspected, how to manage pain safely, and what changes should prompt emergency care.