Bulbourethral gland (Cowper gland)
Glandula bulbourethralis
Also known as: Cowper gland, Cowper glands, bulbourethral glands
Paired pea-sized glands beside the membranous urethra in the deep perineal pouch whose ducts open into the proximal spongy urethra; they secrete a clear mucus (pre-ejaculate) during sexual arousal.
Overview
The bulbourethral glands are about 1 cm across and lie posterolateral to the membranous urethra, embedded among the fibres of the external urethral sphincter in the deep perineal pouch, above the perineal membrane. Each gives a duct about 2.5 cm long that pierces the perineal membrane and the bulb of the penis to open into the proximal spongy (bulbous) urethra.
They are compound tubuloalveolar mucous glands. During sexual arousal, parasympathetic stimulation releases a clear, viscous, alkaline mucus (galactose-rich glycoproteins) that lubricates the urethra and glans and neutralises traces of acidic urine before ejaculation. This pre-ejaculatory fluid can occasionally contain sperm.
- Location
Deep perineal pouch, posterolateral to the membranous urethra, within the external urethral sphincter; ducts open into the bulbous part of the spongy urethra.
Anatomy
- Innervation
Parasympathetic fibres (secretomotor) via the cavernous/prostatic plexus.
- Arterial supply
Artery of the bulb of the penis (from the internal pudendal artery).
- Histology
Compound tubuloalveolar glands with simple cuboidal-to-columnar mucous cells; skeletal and smooth muscle in the septa.
- Development
Endodermal outgrowths of the urogenital sinus (spongy urethra). Female homologue: greater vestibular (Bartholin) glands.
Function
- Secrete mucus that lubricates the urethra and neutralises residual urine before ejaculation.
Clinical significance
Cowper duct cysts (syringocele)
Dilatation of the duct in boys may cause post-void dribbling, haematuria or obstruction; usually managed endoscopically.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Reproductive System sources. For education only; not medical advice.