Withdrawal is when the penis is pulled out of the vagina before ejaculation (i.e., “cumming”). Semen does not go into the vagina, so sperm cannot get to the egg.
How effective is it in preventing pregnancy?
About 1 out of 5 couples who use withdrawal get pregnant every year. Sometimes there are sperm in the “pre-cum”, the fluid that comes out of the penis before ejaculation. This means a pregnancy could theoretically happen, even if the penis is pulled out before ejaculation.
How effective is it in preventing STDs?
NOT effective at all! This method doesn’t protect against STDs, like HIV.
Other Things to Know about WITHDRAWAL:
Advantages:
- It is free, and it does not require a prescription
Disadvantages:
- It takes lots of self-control
- It can be a hassle
- It results in many pregnancies
Acknowledgement: This article was adapted from PlannedParenthood.org, a website that provides education about reproductive and sexual health.
