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Does the pull out method prevent pregnancy?If you use the pull out method perfectly each time, it has about a 96% success rate. However, it is challenging to do it exactly right every time. So, in reality, it has about a 78% success rate. The pull out method—also called the withdrawal method or coitus interruptus—is when a reproductively fertile couple disengage before ejaculation occurs during sex. The purpose of this method is to stop sperm from entering the vagina to prevent pregnancy. If you use the pull out method perfectly each time, it has about a 96% success rate. However, it is challenging to do it exactly right every time. So, in reality, it has about a 78% success rate. That means 22 out of 100 people who use the withdrawal method for 1 year will get pregnant. What makes it so hard? The couple must have a very clear sense when ejaculation is about to happen, in order to separate successfully. They must also have the self-discipline to separate in time. It may be hard for some people to stop in the middle of a pleasurable moment, before climax. Additionally, pre-ejaculate, a fluid that comes out of the penis before ejaculation, sometimes contains sperm. In this case, even if you do pull out successfully, a pregnancy can still occur. Even though the pull out method is not as effective as other methods of contraception, it may still be a good option for some people. Using it is better than having no contraception at all. Benefits of the pull out methodSome people like to use the withdrawal method for contraception because:
Tips for using the pull out methodIf you are going to use the pull out method, there are some things you can do to make it more effective.
Other risks of the pull out methodIn addition to having a higher risk of pregnancy than other contraceptive options, the pull out method does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Before using this method, both partners should know and communicate their STI status. Talk about it and discuss what STI risks you both have before deciding to use the pullout method. Condoms and other barriers like dental dams are more effective at preventing STIs. QUESTIONThe first sign of pregnancy is most often: See AnswerOther contraceptive options to tryIf you decide the pull out method is not for you, there are other, more effective options. These include:
Choosing the right birth control methodThere are many factors that go into choosing the right birth control method. Talk to your primary care doctor or OB-GYN to discuss any health factors that go into choosing contraception. If you choose one method, and you experience side effects or you just don't like it, your doctor can help you find another method that will work better. Health NewsMedically Reviewed on 8/18/2021 References Bedsider: "5 myths about pulling out, busted." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Birth Control Methods." Mayo Clinic: "Withdrawal method (coitus interruptus)". Michigan Health: "A Guide to Choosing the Right Birth Control for Your Lifestyle." Nemours: "Can You Get Pregnant From Pre-Ejaculate?" Planned Parenthood: "How effective is pulling out?" How likely is it to get pregnant if they pull out?For every 100 people who use the pull out method perfectly, 4 will get pregnant. But pulling out can be difficult to do perfectly. So in real life, about 22 out of 100 people who use withdrawal get pregnant every year — that's about 1 in 5.
How effective is the pull out method?As with other birth control methods, the pull out method's effectiveness comes down to how it's used. With typical use, the pull out method is 80% effective. If used perfectly, the pull out method is 96% effective at preventing pregnancy.
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