What Is Clear Fluid Released Before Ejaculation Called?

Posted on Mon, 28 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 Answered on

Thu, 15 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hey doctors I was wondering what the fluid was that comes out of the penis before ejaculation. I tend to have a decent amount of it normal a couple drops worth. What is this? Its clear so I doubt its semen? What's in it?

Answered by Dr. Urszula Stanko (50 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry. Pre-ejaculatory fluid.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

I had gone through your question and understand your concerns.

This clear, sticky fluid is pre-ejaculatory fluid (also called preseminal fluid) which is released from the male urethra during sexual arousal before ejaculation. It is produced by the bulbourethral gland and helps make the urethra less acidic allowing sperm to survive longer. Some men produce a small amount of pre-ejaculate others up to 4ml.

Please note that pre-ejaculate does not contain sperm when it is produced but it can pick up sperm from a previous ejaculation which means that pre-ejaculate can contain sperm. Also pre-ejaculate can transmit STDs.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Urszula Stanko (38 minutes later)

Thank you!!
Wait if there's sperm in it will a microscope see them?

Answered by Dr. Urszula Stanko (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, you can see under microscope.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,

Yes, you can see sperm under the microscope (at least 40x zoom).

Best regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Neel Kudchadkar