Despite the abundance of contraceptive methods currently available, more than a few couples still prefer to do things the old fashioned way. Admittedly, hormonal birth control pills come with certain side effects, condoms are not always comfortable, and some forms of birth control can be quite the investment.
With this in mind, it’s not surprising that many couples resort to the pull-out technique as the most convenient way to plan parenthood. But is pulling out effective? The simple answer would be yes, pulling out can be an effective birth control method, but only if you do it in the right way.
What Does the Pull-out Method Mean?
The name leaves little room for interpretation. The pull-out or withdrawal method is the act of taking out the penis from the vagina prior to ejaculation.
It sounds easy but the action requires spot-on timing and exceptional control. In other words, a man might get overpowered by the moment and fail to withdraw in time. This is one of the reasons why the pull-out method is still an extensively debated topic in terms of effective contraception.
However, if done correctly, it lowers the chances of getting pregnant.
When Is Pulling Out Effective?
For the method to work, sperm needs to be kept away from the vagina and vulva during and after intercourse.
Some studies suggest that about 4% of women get pregnant even if a man uses the pull-out method perfectly. But if it’s poorly executed, the pregnancy rate rises to 22%. For comparison purposes, about 18% of couples who use a condom end up expecting a baby, though the rate would only be 2% if the condoms were used perfectly every time.
Statistics aside, there are a few things you can do to maximize the effectiveness of the pull out method.
1. Apply a Spermicide
Spermicides come as various gels, creams, or foams. They need to be applied deep inside the vagina as close to the cervix as possible. The purpose is to slow down and stop any remaining sperm before it reaches the uterus.
The woman needs to apply the spermicide right before sex, which requires some planning. Nevertheless, it is one of the best ways to maximize the effectiveness of a withdrawal method.
2. Urinate Before Intercourse
It is advisable for the man to pee prior to having sex since it clears any sperm that might swim into the uterus during intercourse.
3. Ovulation Calendar
During the fertile days, the pull-out technique might not be as effective. This is why it’s important for the woman to keep track of ovulation and potentially opt for a different contraceptive method when she is ovulating.
4. Remove Residual Sperm
After ejaculation, there shouldn’t be any sperm on the groin, thighs, or in the pubic region. Otherwise, it might find its way into the vagina and cause pregnancy. Remember, sperm can live inside the female body for up to 5 days so it’s crucial to prevent it from getting there.
Pull-out Method Benefits and Downsides
The technique does require some practice but it’s completely free and can be used on any occasion. If you don’t have a condom at hand, pulling out is better than no contraception at all. Another perk is that it has no side effects at all.
However, pulling out comes with its fair share of downsides. When compared to some other methods, it’s not as effective and it demands practice. Needless to say, a lot of men find it hard to withdraw when they are at the height of pleasure.
On top of that, the method doesn’t offer protection against STDs. For example, genital warts and herpes are spread through skin contact, and gonorrhea and chlamydia can enter the female body through pre-ejaculate fluid.
The Combination with Other Methods
It is not uncommon for couples to wonder if they need to combine the withdrawal method with other forms of contraception. In general, it might not be necessary but it doesn’t hurt if you want to be extra safe.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that combination and mini birth control pills fail in 7% of the cases. This is why you might want to consider withdrawing regardless of the pill. But neither of these methods can provide protection against STDs.
This concern shouldn’t be taken lightly, even if you have a regular partner. The World Health Organization statistics indicate that there are 357 million new STD infections every year on a global level. Most commonly the infections include gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and syphilis.
Some of them may have long-term consequences on reproductive health. They can cause infertility, or transfer from mother to child. This is why it’s best to consider using a condom. In addition to offering good STD protection, a condom is an excellent tool for practicing withdrawal without any consequences.
Emergency Contraception
As stated, withdrawing in time is not exactly easy and there is a reasonable risk that some of the ejaculate might end up inside the vagina. If this happens, the woman has two choices – to wait it out and hope for the best, or to use emergency contraception.
Inserting a copper intrauterine device is the most effective option. However, this is a somewhat invasive procedure and it has to be completed within 5 days after intercourse. Many women prefer emergency pills instead, which are less invasive and they can be obtained without a prescription.
In general, these pills are taken in a single dose within 72 hours after having sex, and it’s recommended to take them as soon as possible. But the recommended dose mustn’t be exceeded or combined with other emergency contraception methods, or it might cause some serious side effects.
And regardless of the emergency contraception you choose, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. He or she can provide a recommendation for the pills that would work the best for you and advise you about the proper dosage.
When in Doubt, Pull It Out
When all is said and done, pulling out can be considered a legitimate way to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It requires practice and self-control, but using a condom can help a man master the skill. The biggest downside of this method is the lack of STD protection. But using the pull-out method in combination with condoms is one of the best ways to stay safe.
References:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)
https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/withdrawal-pull-out-method
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/withdrawal-pull-out-method/how-effective-is-withdrawal-method-pulling-out
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