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The possibility of pregnancy from precum, or pre-ejaculatory fluid, is a hot topic that’s often discussed. But it’s equally as often misunderstood.
While the chances of pregnancy with precum is low, it’s not impossible. That’s why it’s important to get the facts and understand the variables involved. And that’s what we are here to provide.
Read on to learn more about pre-ejaculate and the likelihood of getting pregnant from it.
Key takeaways
- Precum (aka pre-ejaculate fluid) is a lubricant released during arousal.
- Pre-ejaculate itself does not contain sperm.
- But, leftover sperm in the urethra can mix with precum, which can lead to pregnancy.
- The chance of pregnancy from precum is small – about 4% when using the pull-out method perfectly.
- Human error increases the chances of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate fluid to about 22%. This makes the pull-out method an unreliable birth control method.
- If you’re not trying to get pregnant, use more reliable birth control methods. These include condoms, birth control pills, and IUDs.
Let’s start with the basics: What is precum?
Precum, also called pre-ejaculatory fluid, is a clear fluid released from the penis during sex. It happens before ejaculation, hence the “pre” part.
The release of this precum is involuntary. You can’t control when it comes out and in fact, you may not even know that it’s happening.
Pre-cum itself is an alkaline fluid made up of enzymes and mucus. It works to lubricate the urethra, which serves as the passageway for the sperm.
Sperm, however, are the male sex cells that travel in semen. And semen is the fluid that’s released during ejaculation.
Does precum contain sperm?
| Semen | Precum | |
| What is it? | Fluid from the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral gland | Fluid from Cowper’s glands and glands of Littre |
| Does it contain sperm? | Yes. It contains sperm cells, some WBCs, and epithelial cells. | No |
| What it’s purpose? | Carries sperm, nutrients, and enzymes to support sperm survival for fertilization | A natural lubricant secreted during sexual arousal |
Can you get pregnant from precum?
TLDR: yes. You can get pregnant from precum.
While precum doesn’t have any sperm in it, the urethra may — it can hold onto sperm after ejaculation.
So that means that, in the urethra, precum can mix with residual sperm. And that’s where the small chance of pregnancy comes in.
Let’s say your partner ejaculates prior to having sex. Live sperm leftover in the penis could make its way into the precum.
Research supports this. A study that analyzed pre-ejaculatory fluid samples found that 41% of the men had live sperm in their precum. And 37% of that sperm was motile. That opens up the potential for pregnancy.
Further studies found similar results.
This evidence points to the importance of looking at precum as a potential carrier of sperm. This means a small but potential chance of resulting in a pregnancy.
What are the actual chances of getting pregnant from precum?
You’re likely no stranger to the contraceptive method called “pulling out.” It relies on removing the penis from the vagina prior to ejaculation if pregnancy is not the desired outcome.
However, due to the possibility of pregnancy with sperm-contaminated precum, the pull-out method is not reliable for preventing pregnancy.
Studies show there is a 4% chance of pregnancy when the pull-out method is used correctly. And by “correctly,” we mean your partner removes his penis from your vagina before ejaculation.
However, you need to account for human error, which is high given the circumstances of arousal. This ups the chances of pregnancy from precum to about 22% during your fertile window.
Also, keep in mind that sperm can survive for up to 5 days in the female body. So, even if you aren’t ovulating yet, that doesn’t mean pregnancy is impossible.
Learn more: When to Have Sex When You Are Trying to Get Pregnant?
The best way to track your fertile window is by using Inito. This fertility monitor measures all 4 fertility hormones — luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, PdG (urine metabolite of progesterone), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on one single test trip.
LH, estrogen, and FSH are the hormones needed to track your fertile window. And PdG helps confirm ovulation. Tracking these hormones together can help you better understand your fertility.
Is there any way to prevent precum?
No, you can’t prevent precum. It’s a completely involuntary bodily response to arousal. If you’re sexually active, precum is part of the package.
Are you having intercourse but not looking to get pregnant? There are some things you can do to lower your chances of conception.
How to avoid getting pregnant from precum?
Not trying to get pregnant? Then make sure you don’t rely on the pull-out method.
To minimize your chances of getting pregnant, turn to other forms of birth control. These include things like condoms, the birth control pill, and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Talk to your gynecologist to discuss the best form of contraception for you.
Also, tracking your hormones and your menstrual cycle can help you know what time of the month to be extra careful.
If you are unintentionally exposed to pre-cum and don’t have other methods of birth control, use an emergency contraception such as Plan B.
While the pull-out method may lower your chances of pregnancy, it does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections. Other forms of contraception like condoms are a more reliable protection against STIs.
FAQs
The chances of getting pregnant from precum are low, but not impossible.
Studies show there is a 4% failure rate when the withdrawal method is implemented perfectly. The more realistic likelihood of pregnancy from pre-cum that considers human error?
It can reduce the risk, but it doesn’t guarantee that all the sperm will get flushed out and not enter your body.
Also known as a virgin pregnancy, this type of unintended pregnancy happens without penetration. Semen may come into contact with the cervical mucus and journey towards the egg. The likelihood of this is very low, but not impossible.
Learn more: Can You Get Pregnant Without Having Sex?
Birth control is never a 100% guaranteed way to prevent pregnancy — there is always a small chance. However, if you’re using a contraceptive method correctly (IUD, pills, condom), then the chances of you getting pregnant are very low.
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- Sperm content of pre-ejaculatory fluid | PubMed Central
- Presence of Sperm in Pre-Ejaculatory Fluid of Healthy Males | PubMed
- Pull and pray or extra protection? Contraceptive strategies involving withdrawal among US adult women | PubMed Central
- Contraceptive failure in the United States | NIH
- Differences Between High Fertility and Peak Fertility | Inito
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