Do you know why the withdrawal method is less reliable than other birth control methods? It is because of the fluid known as pre-ejaculation fluid.
Pre-ejaculation fluid is produced in men or Assigned Males at birth (AMAB) during arousal before the orgasm.
Pre-ejaculation fluid is also known as pre-cum.
Several individuals are confused about pre-cum, whether it can cause pregnancy or transmit Sexually transmitted Diseases (STDs).
Let us move ahead with this article and understand pre-ejaculation fluid in detail.
What is Pre-ejaculation fluid
Pre-ejaculation or pre-cum is a fluid that comes out of the penis before ejaculation when an individual becomes sexually aroused.
It is a clear, sticky, alkaline, mucus-like fluid and can act as a natural lubricant during sex. It contains Glycoproteins which make pre-cum act as a lubricant.
Pre-ejaculation fluid is made by accessory sex glands called the Cowper’s gland, the glands of Littre, and the glands of Morgagni.
The Cowper’s gland is the primary source of pre-ejaculation fluid.
These accessory sex glands are different from the testes and prostate. These glands make semen.
Individuals cannot feel and control the pre-ejaculation fluid coming from the penis.
The quantity of pre-cum depends on individuals. An individual can release up to 4 ml of pre-cum when sexually aroused.
It is essential to note that pre-ejaculation fluid is different from Premature Ejaculation (PE). PE is a condition where a person ejaculates very early during sex.
It is essential to treat Premature Ejaculation as it can affect your relationship.
What are the functions of pre-ejaculation fluid
Apart from acting as a natural lubricant during sex, pre-ejaculation fluid has various other functions.
The following are some functions of pre-ejaculation fluid.
- Pre-ejaculation fluid or pre-cum can help neutralize the acidity in the urethra. The enzymes in pre-cum can neutralize the acidic nature of urine
- As the environment of the vaginal vault is chemically unstable for sperm, the pre-ejaculation fluid provides a neutralizing buffer that helps sperm survive and remain active
Does pre-ejaculation fluid contains sperm
Yes, several studies have mentioned that pre-cum may contain sperm.. It is possible that sperm may leak into the pre-cum.
A study by the Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand stated sperm were present in pre-cum of the 16.7% of men who participated in that study.
Another study mentioned the presence of sperm in pre-ejaculation fluid in 37% of samples of pre-cum.
What does pre-ejaculation fluid cause
Although the pre-ejaculation fluid is harmless, it is essential to know that it can also lead to pregnancy.
As we know that sperm might be present in pre-cum.
Sexual intercourse without any protection may lead to pregnancy due to the discharge of the pre-cum from the penis, even if you pull out the penis before ejaculating.
The sperm in the pre-cum may cause pregnancy.
According to a study, approximately 20% of people who use the withdrawal method may become pregnant due to pre-cum.
Unwanted pregnancy can also lead to stress and Depression.
Besides pregnancy, pre-cum may also cause STDs. The pre-ejaculation fluid can carry viruses and bacteria, which may cause STDs.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases or STDs such as HIV, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia might be caused due to pre-cum.
It is advised to use protection such as condoms during sex to protect yourself from STDs and to reduce pregnancy chances.
Key Notes
Pre-ejaculation fluid is a fluid that is discharged from the penis when a person is sexually aroused. It is also known as pre-cum.
It is made by accessory sex glands called the Cowper’s gland. It is the main source of pre-cum.
Pre-cum has some functions as well. It neutralizes the acidity of the urethra and acts as a natural lubricant during sex.
Pre-ejaculation fluid may contain some amount of sperm in it.
If partners indulge in unprotected sexual intercourse, pre cum might also lead to unwanted pregnancy, even if the male partner pulls out the penis before the climax.
It may also lead to STDs such as HIV.
It would be best to always use protection during sex to protect yourself from STDs and to reduce the chances of unwanted pregnancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pre-ejaculation fluid normal?
Yes, pre-ejaculation fluid is completely normal. A man or AMAB produces the pre-cum when they are sexually aroused.
Can you get pregnant on pre-ejaculation fluid?
Yes, you can get pregnant due to pre-ejaculation fluid. The fluid may contain some level of sperm which may cause pregnancy if you have unprotected sex. It is advised to use condoms during sexual activity.
How do you stop pre-cum fluid?
You cannot control pre-cum fluid. It is produced when a person is aroused. The amount of pre-cum may range between 1 ml to 4 ml. The pre-cum is generally harmless but cause STIs and pregnancy due to unprotected sex.
What is the purpose of pre-ejaculation fluid?
Pre-ejaculation fluid is a clear and sticky fluid. It helps to lubricate the penis and vagina. It can also help to neutralize the acidity of the vagina, which can help sperm survive.
Is pre-ejaculation fluid a sign of sexual arousal?
Yes, pre-ejaculation can be a sign of sexual arousal. It is released from the Cowper’s glands near the base of the penis when a man is sexually aroused.
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