You’re in the heat of the moment, no condoms in sight, and your partner whispers, “Trust me, my pull-out game is strong.” Fast forward to a few weeks, and you’re staring at two (or three) pregnancy tests, wondering what happened.
For some people, the pull-out (or withdrawal method) seems to work out just fine, but for most, it’s a serious gamble that ends with not just a “mini heart-attack”, but a mini version of you about 9 months later.
Does pulling out really work? How risky is it, and if you and your partner are using, what should you know to do it right, or at least less wrong?
What Is the Pull-Out Method?
It is exactly what it sounds like. This is when your partner pulls the penis out of your vagina before ejaculation (when semen is released). The goal is simple: avoid letting the sperm meet the egg to prevent pregnancy. It sounds pretty simple, but it is a bit more complicated than that.
How Effective Is the Pull-Out Method?
When used perfectly, that is, your partner has superhero timing and pulls out before a single drop of semen comes out, it can be very effective. But if we’re being very honest, most people don’t do it perfectly.
According to research, about 1 in 5 women will get pregnant each year using the withdrawal method alone. This happens for various reasons, including that your partner isn’t pulling out fast enough or maybe you both just got caught in the moment. Other times, sperm sneaks out through pre-ejaculate, aka, pre-cum, which is the little fluid that comes out before full ejaculation.
So, yes, while pulling out can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it’s definitely not the most reliable method on its own.
Does Pulling Out Protect Against STIs?
No. It offers zero protection against STIs like gonorrhoea, HIV, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis. These infections spread through genital skin contact or body fluids, not just semen. So, even if he pulls out perfectly, you’re still exposed.
Tips for If You Want to Use the Pull-Out Method
A lot of couples use the withdrawal method because it is convenient. If you choose to use this method, here are a few tips that might help:
- Know your cycle: If you have a regular cycle, avoid using this method during your fertile window, that is, when you’re most likely to get pregnant. If your cycle is irregular and unpredictable and you’re not trying for a baby, avoid this method.
- Combine it with other methods: If your goal is to avoid pregnancy, you can combine it with other forms of birth control, like the hormonal or non-hormonal methods, for your peace of mind.
- Emergency Contraception: Accidents happen. If your partner didn’t pull out in time or you’re not sure, then try using emergency contraception like the morning-after pill. They can help prevent pregnancy when used correctly within a few days, depending on the type. It is a good backup, but it shouldn’t be used regularly, like your main birth control.
- Get tested regularly: Pulling out doesn’t protect you from STIs. Condoms are the go-to for that. If you still want to stick to this method, make sure you and your partner get tested regularly.
Final Thoughts
The truth is that the pull-out method is risky. It takes trust, control, and a little bit of luck. If you’re trying to avoid pregnancy and STIs, then pair it with other forms of birth control.
