nPaired, pea-shaped
bulbourethral glands (or Cowper’s glands) are located within the urogenital diaphragm on each side
of the membranous
urethra.
nEach gland has a
short duct that projects into the base of the penis and enters the spongy urethra.
nTheir secretory
product is a clear, viscous mucin that forms mucus when mixed with water.
nAs a component of
the seminal fluid, this mucin protects the urethra
and serves as a lubricant during sexual intercourse.