Prostate Fluid: Normal Secretion and Health Concerns

Prostatic fluid

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about something.
Sometimes when I see exciting images, I get an erection, but before it becomes fully erect, I notice some sticky fluid being secreted.
Is that prostate fluid? Is it normal to have this happen when I'm slightly aroused but not fully erect? Also, sometimes when I wake up in the morning with morning wood, I find sticky fluid on my underwear, but it doesn't seem like a wet dream.
Is that also prostate fluid?
Additionally, I want to ask if using toilet paper in the company restroom to wipe the glans could potentially lead to an infection of any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)? (I'm not wiping the very top part.) If I have never engaged in sexual intercourse, am I still at risk for STDs or warts? I've heard that excessive masturbation might lead to premature ejaculation in the future.
Do you have any recommendations on how often one should masturbate, perhaps every few days?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/08

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask, sometimes when I see exciting images, I get an erection, but before it becomes fully erect, I notice some sticky fluid being secreted.
Is that prostate fluid? Is it normal to have this happen when I'm slightly aroused but not fully erect? Also, sometimes when I wake up in the morning with morning wood, there's sticky fluid on my underwear, but it doesn't seem like a wet dream.
Is that also prostate fluid? It’s not always the case.
I would like to ask if using toilet paper from the company restroom to wipe the glans could potentially lead to an infection from a sexually transmitted disease (STD)? (I’m not referring to the top layer of the toilet paper.) No, if there has been no sexual activity, is it still easy to contract STDs or HPV? I have heard that HPV can be transmitted, but it is quite rare.
I’ve also heard that excessive masturbation might lead to premature ejaculation.
What do you recommend regarding the frequency of masturbation? It should not affect your daily life or cause fatigue; the frequency depends on individual constitution.

Reply Date: 2019/05/08

More Info

Understanding prostate fluid and its normal secretion is an important aspect of male reproductive health. The fluid you are describing, which is sometimes secreted during moments of sexual arousal or excitement, is indeed likely to be pre-ejaculatory fluid, often referred to as pre-cum. This fluid is produced by the Cowper's glands (bulbourethral glands) and serves several purposes, including lubrication and neutralizing acidity in the urethra, which can help facilitate the passage of sperm during ejaculation.

It is entirely normal for men to experience the secretion of this fluid during sexual arousal, even if they do not achieve a full erection. This can happen due to stimulation of the nervous system, which triggers the glands to produce fluid in anticipation of ejaculation. Similarly, the presence of this fluid upon waking, often referred to as "morning wood" or nocturnal penile tumescence, is also a normal physiological response. It indicates healthy blood flow and nerve function in the penis.

Regarding your concern about using public restroom facilities and the potential for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it is important to note that STIs are primarily transmitted through direct sexual contact with an infected person. The risk of contracting an STI from using toilet paper or touching surfaces in a public restroom is extremely low, especially if you have not engaged in sexual activity. However, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands and avoiding contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, is always advisable.

As for the frequency of masturbation, there is no universally "correct" number of times one should engage in this activity. It varies widely among individuals and can depend on personal comfort, libido, and lifestyle. Some studies suggest that moderate masturbation is normal and healthy, while excessive masturbation may lead to temporary issues such as fatigue or soreness. Concerns about early ejaculation related to frequent masturbation are often overstated; however, if you find that your sexual performance is affected, it may be beneficial to reduce the frequency and observe any changes.

In summary, the secretion of fluid during arousal is normal and does not indicate any health issues. Maintaining proper hygiene in public restrooms minimizes the risk of infection, and masturbation frequency should be based on personal comfort rather than strict guidelines. If you have ongoing concerns about your sexual health or experience significant changes in your sexual function, consulting a healthcare professional is always a good idea for personalized advice and support.

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