Some folks choose the pull out (also known as withdrawal) method if they don’t want to use contraception, or find contraceptive methods inaccessible. Around 1 in 5 people using this method will get pregnant after a year of using it. When compared with the less than 1 out of 100 that will get pregnant while correctly using an IUD or hormonal birth control it is clear that folks using the pull out method need to be more comfortable with this idea that they might get pregnant.

The pull out method means removing a penis from a vagina during sex before ejaculation happens. The idea behind it is to stop cum/ejaculate from entering the vagina – therefore preventing sperm from fertilising an egg. While this may make sense in theory, in reality, it is not always this simple. Firstly, pre-cum can contain sperm, and so it is possible that someone could get pregnant even if the pull out is timed correctly. Pre-cum is also called pre-ejaculate and is liquid that comes out of some penises when they are aroused but before an orgasm.

The pull out method can also be difficult to execute for a number of reasons. It can take a lot of self control, and requires a lot of self knowledge in order to pull out at the right time. It is not uncommon for this to happen even a second to late, leading to cum inside the vagina. Some sex positions can be harder or easier for this quick pull out to happen. For example, if someone with a vagina is sitting on top, they may not know what is happening with enough time to move.

In the heat of the moment, when something feels good, can be the hardest time to make sexual health decisions. What you decided earlier may feel less relevant or important, and so if you are using this method you have to have strong trust that you or your partner will be able to execute this as agreed upon.

All of that is not to say the pull out method is invalid or wrong if you feel it is right for you and your partner(s). It is just important that all parties involved understand the risks associated with this sexual health strategy.

Similarly to all forms of contraception (other than barrier protection), the pull out method does not protect against any STIs. If using these methods it’s important to consider also using an internal or external condom, a dental dam, discussing your risk levels and comfort, and getting tested regularly.

You can learn more about where we got this information from at: PlannedParenthood
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