Pre-cum is a pre-ejaculatory clear liquid that is released from the penis when it is aroused, similar to how the vagina secretes natural lubrication.
Where does pre-cum come from?
Pre-ejaculate is produced by the pea-sized Cooper's gland (bulbourethral gland), located just below the prostate.
Is pre-cum the same as semen?
No, many people confuse precum and sperm (ejaculate), and that's understandable. Both fluids are secreted from the penis, but have different purposes and benefits.
Precum acts much like a pre-penetration lubricant, but its main purpose is to lubricate the urethra to make the sperm's journey from the testicles to the vagina 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-ejaculate 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 pre-cum, which can be somewhat burdensome and uncomfortable. While excess pre-ejaculatory fluid isn't a health hazard, it can be awkward 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 pre-cum as a lubricant!
How to deal with excess precum?
If you experience increased amounts of pre-ejaculate, especially in situations outside the bedroom, consult your doctor. There are medications your doctor can prescribe to reduce the amount of pre-ejaculatory fluid while still maintaining the natural cleansing and pH-balancing benefits of the urethra.
How to produce more precum?
It may very well be that your body or penis does not produce pre-ejaculate or produces only a small amount of it. Unfortunately, many supplement companies claim that they increase the amount of pre-cum, 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 to control premature ejaculation for pleasure and at the same time improve the production of pre-ejaculate.
Can precum cause pregnancy?
The chances are slim, but yes, you can still get pregnant! This is why coitus interruptus, in which a man withdraws his penis while feeling an orgasm approaching, is not an ideal way to prevent pregnancy.
Can you give or get an STI from pre-cum?
Pre-cum is a sexual fluid that can carry bacteria or viral infections from the Cooper's glands, so yes, it is possible to become infected and transmit STIs.
STIs can be passed on through all forms of sex, including sex that does not result in pregnancy, such as oral or anal. With penetrative vaginal sex, the chance of precum passing on an STI is much higher than the chance of you getting pregnant.
Therefore, always use a condom, even if you only plan to have oral sex.