What Is Precum? Everything You Need To Know
Pre-cum (aka pre-ejaculate) is something you have likely encountered if you have sex with someone who has a penis. You've probably seen it. You've definitely heard about it. But chances are you don’t know exactly what it is. You know, scientifically speaking. No judgment here, heauxs! Read on to learn everything you need to know about pre-cum.
So, what is it?
Pre-ejaculate is a clear, colorless fluid that comes out of a penis when a guy is aroused and just before he ejaculates. It's not the same thing as ejaculate. It can happen during foreplay, masturbation or any type of sexual stimulation. The primary function of pre-ejaculate is to act as a lubricant during sex. It also lubricates the urethra to prepare it for ejaculation. Pre-ejaculate is alkaline (since the environment inside urethra is acidic) to help ensure that the sperm survives.
Where does it come from?
Pre-ejaculate originates from the cowper’s glands, which are located at the base of the penis. The fluid travels through the urethra and in the process mixes with the mucus produced by the urethral glands. Next, it makes a swift exit at the top of the penis.
Can it transfer STIs?
Yes. Pre-cum can transfer viruses and bacteria since the glands that produce it can be a subject to viral and bacterial STIs. Using a condom is the best way to protect yourself and your partners from STIs. So even if your sexual partner does not ejaculate inside your vagina, a condom should be a part of your sex routine.
Can it get you pregnant?
That's a tricky question. Technically pre-cum by itself can’t get you pregnant. BUT, whether or not you can get pregnant after fooling around with someone when pre-ejaculate is involved depends on a number of factors. Pre-cum itself usually doesn't contain live sperm, but it is possible for small amounts of live sperm to exit the reproductive system and make its way into precum. There could be a few live sperm in there from the last time your partner ejaculated. Though it is incredibly rare, some women have become pregnant from precum, so we won't rule out the possibility. After all, all it takes to get pregnant is one agile, overly enthusiastic sperm. If you're not planning on having kids any time soon, play it safe and wrap up!
Are penises the only organ that produces pre-ejaculate?
In case you are wondering, people with vaginas also produce fluid before and during sex. It comes from a number of places – the cervix, the vaginal wall and Bartholin’s glands (located in the vagina). There you have it. Pre-cum in a nutshell (sorry - the puns write themselves).
