The bulbourethral glands are paired, round, pea-sized exocrine glands of the male reproductive system. Each bulbourethral gland is found at the bulb of the penis (Read more!), just below the prostate (Read more!). They are deeply positioned within the urogenital diaphragm, located inferior to the urinary bladder (Read more!) and posterolateral to the membranous part of the urethra (Read more!).

The bulbourethral glands are homologous to Bartholin's glands in the female reproductive system. They are also known as the Cowper's glands or glands of Mery. The name of these glands derives from their close location to the urethra and the bulb of penis.

Each gland is around 0.39 inches (1 cm) in diameter, and both glands are positioned very close to each other. The distance between them is only about 0.16 - 0.24 inches (4 - 6 mm).

The bulbourethral gland is drained via a 1.18 - 1.97 inches (3 - 5 cm) long duct of bulbourethral gland. It penetrates the perineal membrane and opens through a tiny opening into the proximal portion of the spongy part of the urethra (Read more!). The duct of bulbourethral gland is surrounded by the external urethral sphincter.

Histologically, the bulbourethral glands are compound tubuloalveolar glands. They produce and release a clear, colorless and viscous fluid containing numerous enzymes and mucus. It is called pre-ejaculate or pre-cum. A small amount of it (about 0.14 oz (4 ml)) is released into the urethra during sexual arousal before ejaculation.

Pre-ejaculate helps to lubricate the urethra, which aids in the passage of sperm. Additionally, it is alkaline, so it neutralizes the acidity of urine that remains in the final portion of the urethra and also neutralizes the pH in the vagina. Sperm can also sometimes be present in pre-ejaculate.

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Bulbourethral glands