Bulbourethral gland (Cowper's gland)
The bulbourethral glands are part of the male reproductive system. They may also be referred to as Cowper's glands since they were first documented by anatomist William Cowper in the late 1600s. The two bulbourethral glands are roughly the size of a pea and are located in the deep perineal pouch. They are at the base of the penis and are lateral and posterior to the urethra. They are exocrine glands with approximately 2.5cm ducts that pass through the perineal membrane and into the proximal portion of the spongy urethra. When sexually aroused, the glands produce a mucous like fluid called pre-ejaculate. The pre-ejaculate fluid is a viscous, clear, and salty liquid that neutralizes any residual acidity in the urethra. The now neutralized urethra is a more hospitable environment for the sperm to travel in.