preseminal

Preseminal fluid, often referred to as pre-ejaculate or simply pre-cum, is a clear, slippery fluid that is released from the bulbourethral glands (also known as Cowper's glands) in males during sexual arousal. This fluid is expelled prior to ejaculation, the process of semen being expelled from the penis.

The primary function of preseminal fluid is lubrication. During sexual arousal, it helps to moisten the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body, making sexual intercourse more comfortable. It can also help to neutralize any residual acidity in the urethra from previous urination, creating a more favorable environment for sperm.

Preseminal fluid is not semen. While it is produced by glands in the male reproductive system, it does not contain sperm in most cases. However, there is a potential for a small number of sperm to be present in the preseminal fluid if there has been recent ejaculation. This is because residual sperm from a previous ejaculation can be flushed into the urethra and mixed with the pre-ejaculate. Due to this possibility, preseminal fluid can, in rare instances, lead to pregnancy if intercourse occurs without barrier protection.

The amount of preseminal fluid produced varies greatly among individuals and can also vary for the same individual at different times. It is a normal physiological response to sexual arousal and is not indicative of any health issue.