Precum is a clear pre-ejaculatory fluid that is released from the penis when aroused, similar to how the vagina secretes natural lubrication.
Where does precum come from?
Pre-ejaculation is produced by the pea-sized Cooper's gland (bulbourethral gland), located just below the prostate.
Is precum the same as semen?
No, many people confuse precum and sperm (ejaculate), and that is understandable. Both fluids are secreted by the penis, but they have different purposes and benefits.
Precum acts very similar to a pre-penetration lubricant, but its main purpose is to lubricate the urethra so that the sperm's journey from the testicles to the vagina is as safe as possible. It also helps clear urine of bacteria and equalize pH levels.
Sperm is a liquid that can be white, gray or even yellowish in color and appears as a result of orgasm. It transports sperm from the penis to the vagina for fertilization.
How much pre-ejaculation does the body produce?
For most penis owners, the amount of pre-ejaculatory fluid ranges from a teaspoon or less.
Some penis owners may experience and produce excessive amounts of precum, which can be somewhat annoying and uncomfortable. While excess pre-ejaculatory fluid is not a health hazard, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing to suddenly wet your underwear when you see a hottie walking down the street. But that doesn't mean you should rely on using precum as a lubricant!
How to deal with excess precum?
If you experience increased amounts of pre-ejaculation, especially in situations outside of the bedroom, consult your doctor. There are medications your doctor can prescribe to reduce the amount of pre-ejaculatory fluid while maintaining the natural cleansing and pH-balancing benefits of the urethra.
How to produce more precum?
It is quite possible that your body or penis does not produce pre-ejaculation or only produces a small amount. Unfortunately, many supplement companies claim to increase the amount of precum, but don't fall for these cheap tricks: the amount of fluid your body produces is out of your control. Each and every body is built differently.
Penis owners should try prostate stimulation and pelvic floor muscle training. This will teach you how to control premature ejaculation for pleasure and at the same time improve pre-ejaculate production.
Can precum cause pregnancy?
The chances are slim, but yes, you can still get pregnant! That's why withdrawal, in which the man withdraws his penis while he feels an orgasm approaching, is not an ideal way to prevent pregnancy.
Can you get or contract an STI from precum?
Precum is a sexual fluid that can carry bacteria or viral infections from the Cooper glands, so yes, it is possible to become infected and transmit STIs.
STIs can be transmitted through all forms of sexual intercourse, including sexual intercourse that does not result in pregnancy, such as oral or anal. With penetrative vaginal sex, the chance of precum transmitting an STI is much greater than the chance of getting pregnant.
Therefore, always use a condom, even if you only plan to have oral sex.