These questions are especially relevant for those who use the oldest contraceptive method: the interruption of intercourse.
During intercourse, all attention is focused on the climax: ejaculation. But the harbinger of male orgasm, pre-ejaculation, often remains in the shadows, although its role is also very important.
Where and when does precum appear?
The pre-ejaculation, or pre-seminal fluid, is released from the head of the penis while it is erect. Cooper's glands are responsible for its production: two peas with a diameter of 3-8 millimeters, lurking in the thickness of the perineum muscles, at the base of the penis.
A secret appears in response to the partner's caressing or masturbation. Also, its quantity increases with emotion. Unlike whitish semen, pre-ejaculation is clear and colorless, and resembles mucus in consistency.
Why do you need pre-ejaculation?
The pre-seminal fluid acts as a trailblazer, clearing the way for the Star Race. In the urethra (urethra), through which sperm rush, residues of uric acid remain, which is destructive to male germ cells. The acidic environment of the vagina is also a serious threat.
Pre-ejaculation neutralizes acidity and thus creates a safe environment for sperm.
In addition, the clear mucus serves as a natural lubricant for the glans of the penis, providing gliding. And by mixing with the sperm, it continues to protect the male reproductive cells throughout the entire route and helps them move towards the goal.
How much precum to produce
The total volume depends on the individual characteristics and the age of the man. Someone receives a few drops of mucus during intercourse and someone more than 5 milliliters, about a teaspoon.
From time to time, men complain that when they get turned on they have too much liquid that stains their clothes. What to do about it? If there are no painful sensations, nothing, since we are talking about a variant of the norm.
Doctors recommend stocking up on tissues and treating excess precum as healthy and temporary. With age, their quantity will decrease.
In medicine, there have been cases in which the production of pre-ejaculate was suppressed by a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. These drugs are generally used to treat an enlarged prostate and baldness. However, treatment can also have side effects: depression, decreased sex drive, and decreased self-esteem.
Is it possible to get pregnant from precum?
Scientific controversy continues around this issue. Some studies show that there are no viable sperm in the precum. Others, that in some men, the sex cells still enter the pre-ejaculation in a sufficient quantity for conception.
There is a risk of getting pregnant with the interruption of intercourse, even if the man has an excellent reaction and not a drop of sperm seeps into the woman's body.
However, unwanted pregnancy is not the only reason to be "scared" of precum and use a condom. Pre-cum precisely spreads STIs, including HIV, Chlamydia, Hepatitis B, and gonorrhea - there's no question about that.