Withdrawal Method - Pulling Out

Withdrawal method, also called “pulling out” is not recommended as a method of contraception, but is more effective than using no contraception.

Overview

The withdrawal method is when the penis is withdrawn (pulled out) of the vagina before ejaculation (cumming). It is not recommended as a method of contraception, especially for young people, but is more effective than using no contraception.

If you use withdrawal correctly, it can be up 96% effective at preventing pregnancy. It might only be up to 80% effective if you or your partner pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) or were unable to withdraw. It can be difficult to know if your partner has pre-ejaculated, which is why this method is not recommended if you are not planning to get pregnant.

Key Facts

How it Works

The withdrawal method works by lowering the chance of sperm entering the vagina. But if the penis is not pulled out at the right time it is possible for some sperm to get into the vagina. Sperm might also be in the pre-ejaculate (pre-cum).

The withdrawal method is totally dependent on a male partner and their self-control. They’ve got to make sure he pulls out before he ejaculates AND they’ve got to keep his semen away from your vagina when they do. So it’s really important that the male partner understands their own sexual response patterns.

Pros

  • Is cost free.
  • Is always available.
  • Does not use devices or medications.
  • Has no side effects.
  • You can use it with another form of contraception.
  • If you use withdrawal correctly, it can be up to 96% effective at preventing pregnancy. It might only be up 80% effective if you or your partner pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) or were unable to withdraw.

Cons

  • You’ve got to do it right—every single time—for withdrawal to be effective.

  • If you forget to withdraw and did not use other contraception, you may need to use Emergency Contraception – check out either Copper IUD or Emergency Contraceptive Pill.
  • It doesn’t protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you will need to use a barrier method such as condoms.

FAQs

Everyone is different, so there are no universal signals to look out for. Communicating with your partner will help. If you want to use withdrawal for contraception but your partner is unsure what their signals are, practice with a condom first, or it might be fun to mess around without penetrative sex to learn their “I’m getting close” quirks.

If you think your partner has forgotten to withdraw, or did not withdraw in time, and did not use other contraception, you may need emergency contraception. Find out more about Copper IUD or Emergency Contraceptive Pill.

Non-Hormonal IUD – Copper

A non-hormonal (Copper) IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device which contains copper. It is put into the uterus (womb). A Copper IUD does not contain hormones. The copper IUD can also be used as an Emergency Contraception.

LASTS FROM 5 TO 10 YEARS | PLACED IN THE UTERUS | EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION – UP TO 5 DAYS AFTER SEX

Hormonal IUD - Mirena | Jaydess

A Hormonal IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device, which contains the hormone progestogen to control your fertility. The device is put into the uterus (womb).

HORMONES | LASTS FROM 3 TO 5 YEARS | PLACED IN THE UTERUS | EFFECTIVE IN 7 DAYS

Implant – Jadelle

Two small, flexible plastic rods that are placed just under the skin in the upper arm. The implant releases the hormone progestogen to control fertility.

HORMONES | LASTS UP TO 5 YEARS | PLACED IN THE ARM | EFFECTIVE IN 7 DAYS