These questions are especially relevant for those who use the oldest method of contraception - interrupted coitus.
During sexual intercourse, all attention is concentrated on the climax - ejaculation.But the harbinger of male orgasm - pre-ejaculate - usually remains in the shadows, although its role is also very important.
Where and when does precum appear?
Pre-ejaculate or pre-seminal fluid is released from the head of the penis during an erection.Cooper's glands are responsible for its production - two peas with a diameter of 3-8 millimeters, hidden in the thickness of the perineal muscle, at the base of the penis.
The secretion appears in response to a partner's caress or during masturbation.Moreover, its quantity increases with excitement.Unlike whitish sperm, pre-ejaculate is transparent and colorless and has a mucus-like consistency.
Why do you need a godfather?
Pre-seminal fluid plays the role of a pioneer, which paves the way for the participants of the "star race".In the urethra (urethra), through which sperm rushes, remains of uric acid, harmful to male reproductive cells.The vagina, with its acidic environment, also poses a serious danger.
Pre-ejaculate neutralizes acidity and thus creates safe conditions for sperm.
In addition, the clear mucus serves as a natural lubricant for the head of the penis, ensuring gliding.And mixing with the sperm, it continues to protect the male reproductive cells along the entire route and helps them move towards their goal.
How much precum should be produced?
The total volume depends on the individual characteristics and age of the man.Some people get a few drops of mucus during sex, while others get more than 5 milliliters, about a teaspoon.
Men occasionally complain that when they are excited they secrete too much fluid, which stains their clothes.What to do about it?If there are no painful sensations, nothing, because we are talking about a variant of the norm.
Doctors recommend stocking up on tissues and treating excess pre-sperm as healthy and temporary.With age, its amount will decrease.
In medicine, there have been cases where the production of preejaculate was suppressed by a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor.Usually, such drugs are used in the treatment of enlarged prostate and baldness.However, the treatment can also have side effects: depression, reduced sexual desire and reduced self-esteem.
Is it possible to get pregnant from preejaculate?
There is still scientific controversy surrounding this issue.Some studies show that there are no viable sperm in the pre-seminal fluid.Others say that in some men, the pre-ejaculate still contains germ cells in sufficient quantities for conception.
The risk of getting pregnant during interrupted sexual intercourse exists, even if the man has an excellent reaction and not even a drop of sperm leaks into the woman's body.
However, unwanted pregnancy is far from the only reason to be "afraid" of pre-ejaculate and use a condom.Pre-seminal fluid accurately spreads sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, chlamydia, hepatitis B and gonorrhea - no doubt about it.