The bulbo-urethral gland is a small gland located in the male reproductive system that is responsible for producing a clear, viscous fluid that helps to lubricate the urethra during sexual intercourse. Synonyms for this gland include Cowper's gland, bulbourethral gland, and glandulae bulbourethrales. Cowper's gland was named after English anatomist William Cowper, who first described the gland in the late 17th century. The term bulbourethral gland is somewhat self-explanatory, as it describes the location and function of the gland within the male anatomy. In addition to its lubricating function, the bulbo-urethral gland also helps to neutralize any acidic urine that may remain in the urethra.