Withdrawal Method
Updated:The withdrawal method, also known as "pulling out" or coitus interruptus, is a contraceptive technique where the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. The goal is to prevent sperm from entering the vagina, thus reducing the risk of pregnancy. While it's a widely known method, it's important to understand that it's not highly reliable for preventing pregnancy.
Additional Information
The withdrawal method is considered one of the least effective forms of birth control. Its effectiveness rate is around 78% with typical use, meaning about 22 out of 100 women who use this method over the course of a year may become pregnant. The main reasons for its low reliability include:
- Pre-ejaculate fluid may contain sperm
- Timing errors (withdrawing too late)
- Lack of self-control
It's crucial to note that the withdrawal method does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For better pregnancy prevention and STI protection, it's recommended to use more reliable methods like condoms, hormonal contraceptives, or long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).
Examples
A couple decides to use the withdrawal method as their primary form of birth control, with the male partner pulling out before ejaculation during each sexual encounter.
In a sexual health class, students learn about various contraceptive methods, including the withdrawal method, and discuss its pros and cons compared to other options.