Can precum lead to pregnancy? Let's clear up the confusion on this often misunderstood topic. The LOVE Team is here to answer your questions and provide clear info to help you understand the risks.
Wondering if precum can cause pregnancy? Well, the answer is yes! Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to get pregnant even if a man doesn't fully ejaculate during penetration. While the risk is low, it's definitely there. To avoid any surprises, it's crucial to use reliable contraception. Check out our top tips to manage this risk and make the most of your intimate life!
What exactly is precum?
Pre-ejaculate, or precum as it's commonly known, is a fluid produced by men during sexual arousal, before ejaculation. This fluid plays a vital role in preparing the body for sex. It neutralises the acidity of the urethral tract, creating a more favourable environment for sperm. Plus, it acts as a natural lubricant, making penetration smoother and sex more enjoyable for both partners.
Mainly composed of mucus, proteins, and enzymes, precum is often misunderstood and raises questions, especially regarding its implications for contraception and pregnancy risk.
Is there sperm in precum?
The question of whether precum is a subject of fervent debate. The answer seems to be: not always, but it's possible. Several studies have been conducted on this topic without reaching a definitive conclusion. Some research has indeed found mobile sperm in precum. This can be explained by the fact that sperm can remain in a man’s urethra after he has ejaculated.
This uncertainty is important to consider, especially if you don’t want to become pregnant. Even though the risk is low, it's still there. For this reason, it's essential to use a reliable method of contraception to manage this risk and enjoy your intimate life worry-free.
What are the risks of pregnancy if we only use the withdrawal method?
The withdrawal method, also known as coitus interruptus or the pull-out method, involves withdrawing from the vagina before ejaculation. Many couples opt for this method, often combined with tracking the woman's ovulation (otherwise known as the rhythm method). However, it's important to know that this method comes with risks.
Even if you think you're not ovulating, there's still a risk of pregnancy. First of all, sperm can survive up to five days in a woman's body. Plus, menstrual cycles can be irregular, making it tricky to pinpoint ovulation accurately, even with calculations.
Plus, as we've discussed, precum can contain sperm, further increasing the risk of pregnancy. For all of these reasons, the withdrawal method isn't considered a reliable form of contraception.
What should I do if he “precame” during sex?
If he released precum without fully ejaculating during penetrative sex, here are the steps to minimise your risk of pregnancy.
First, consider using emergency contraception, which can prevent pregnancy up to five days after sex. This method delays ovulation, reducing the chances of fertilisation.
Next, think about using a reliable form of contraception next time, like the pill or an IUD. If you prefer to avoid hormonal or internal contraceptives, insist that he wear a condom during sex to minimise your risks (also a good idea if you don’t know your partner well and would like to protect yourself against STIs!).
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a healthy sex life with peace of mind.
Nothing is ever certain when it comes to contraception, but if you're sure you don't want to get pregnant, you need to take the proper measures to protect yourself. Using a reliable form of contraception is key to avoiding any surprises. Take care of yourself and enjoy your intimate life safely!