Key Facts about Withdrawal

The withdrawal method is when the penis is withdrawn (pulled out) of the vagina before ejaculation (cumming).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.

• It does not protect you from STIs.

How it works

Withdraw (pull out) the penis from the vagina before ejaculation (cumming). It is important that the ejaculate (cum) is not near the vaginal opening.

Pros & cons

• You’ve got to do it right—every single time—for withdrawal to be effective.
• It is free.
• You can use it with another form of contraception.
• There are no side effects.
• It does not protect you from STIs.
• If you forget to withdraw and did not use other contraception, you may need to use Emergency Contraception.

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 his self-control. He’s got to make sure he pulls out before he ejaculates AND he’s got to keep his semen away from your vagina when he does. So it’s really important that the male partner understands his 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 de 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.
• It doesn’t protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you will need to use a barrier method such as condoms.

How can I tell when my male partner is about to ejaculate?

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 his signals are, practice with a condom first, or it might be fun to mess around without penetrative sex to learn his “I’m getting close” quirks. 

What should I do if the withdrawal method doesn’t work?

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.