Precum, also called pre-ejaculate, is a clear fluid that comes out of thepenisduring arousal but beforeorgasm.
Precum is a lubricant that does not usually contain sperm.
However, there may already be sperm in the urethra that mixes with the fluid as it passes through.
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If precum is released into the vagina, there’s a risk of pregnancy before ejaculation.
In addition to reducing friction during intercourse, precum makes it easier for sperm to leave the body.
This article will go over what precum is and what it does.
It will also cover how much precum is normal and the chances of getting pregnant from precum.
What Does Precum Do?
Pre-ejaculate can neutralize the acidity in the urethra, making it more alkaline.
This clears the way for sperm to travel through it safely.
Precum is also a natural lubricant for sexual intercourse.
It’s similar to the fluid that’s made by people with a vagina when they are aroused.
While semen has sperm in it, precum usually does not.
Its mostly made up of nutrients and other substances that helpkeep semen healthy.
Difference Between Precum and Semen
Semencontains sperm, which is made in thetestes.
It also contains a nutrient-rich fluid (seminal fluid) that helps sperm move.
Semen exits the body through the urethra.
How Much Precum Is Normal?
There’s no “normal” or “abnormal” amount of precum.
The amount of precum a person makes can vary.
Some people may produce a few drops.
Most people do not notice or feel when precum is released.
What if I Have Excessive Precum?
Having too much precum is usually nothing to worry about.
It’s rare, but some males produce more fluid than a teaspoon.
Excess precum may become bothersome when it soils clothes during arousal.
In this case, talk to a healthcare provider to see if medications may be able to help.
Does Precum Cause Pregnancy?
The chances of getting pregnant from precum are low, but it’s not impossible.
Even if precum only contacts the outsideof thevulva, pregnancy could happen (though its not likely).
Precum does not typically have sperm in it.
There is no way to tell whether precum has sperm in it or not.
There are various statistics on rates of pregnancy with precum and the withdrawal method.
What About Precum After Vasectomy?
That said, people do sometimes get pregnant after a partner has had avasectomy.
After about 15 to 20 ejaculations, any remaining sperm will be cleared out of the semen.
This may take three months or more if ejaculations happen five to seven times a month.
It’s not safe to assume the vasectomy is effective until the sperm count has dropped to zero.
You and a partner can discuss the methods (or combination of methods) that work best for you.
Withdrawal methods shouldn’t be the only form of birth control if you don’t want to get pregnant.
You may want totake a pregnancy testaround that time, especially if yourperiod is late.
If you had sex without protection and are concerned about pregnancy from precum, you might consider usingemergency contraception.
There are a few options:
Can Precum Transmit STIs?
Even if you are not concerned about pregnancy, exposure to precum also has other risks.
Precum can carry bacteria, viruses, and organisms that causesexually transmitted infections (STIs).
To protect yourself,use a condomfor any sexual contact with a penis and getscreened for STIsregularly.
STIs do not always cause symptoms.
If you have unprotected sex, gettested regularly for HIV.
The bacteria that cause it can live in precum, vaginal fluid, and semen.
Many people do not havesymptoms of chlamydia.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis Bis a highly infectious virus that affects the liver.
It is the only strain of hepatitis that can be transmitted through precum.
Most cases clear up in a few months.
Summary
Precum is not the same as ejaculate.
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Planned Parenthood.What’s the Plan B morning after pill?
Planned Parenthood.What’s the ella morning-after pill?
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HIV.gov.How is HIV transmitted?
HIV.gov.HIV Treatment as Prevention.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Clinical signs and symptoms of hepatitis B.
