What initial test would be appropriate for a male with bright red blood in his semen?

In the case of a male presenting with bright red blood in his semen, conducting a urine probe for gonorrhea and chlamydia is an appropriate initial test. The presence of blood in the semen, known as hematospermia, can be caused by various conditions, including infections of the reproductive tract. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the reproductive system, which may present as blood in the semen.

By testing for these infections initially, the physician can determine if a treatable STI is the underlying cause of the observed symptoms. Identifying infections early allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent further complications. Other tests, while potentially useful in the broader workup, do not address the immediate and common concern of STIs related to the symptom of bleeding in the semen.