Seven Frequently Asked Questions About the Pull Out Method (Withdrawal)

Skillz January 6, 2022

0 2,873 4 minutes read

1. What exactly is it?

Additionally referred to as withdrawal, the pull out method is one of the most fundamental kinds of birth control available.

It is most frequently employed during penile-vaginal intercourse.

To use this technique, the penis must be removed from the vagina prior to ejaculation.

This blocks the entry of semen into the vagina, allowing you to avoid pregnancy without relying on another method of birth control.

2. Is it really as simple as it sounds?

Although the pull out procedure is quite simple, it is not as simple as it sounds and as we proceed we will shed more light to Questions About the Pull Out Method.

It is critical to communicate.
Because the pull out approach is not risk-free, you and your partner should consider any potential dangers in advance — including what to do if this method fails.

You must perfect your timing.
Despite widespread perception, some study indicates that pre-cum can contain sperm.

This means that even if withdrawal happens prior to ejaculation, there is a minor probability of pregnancy.

You or your partner must be aware whenever you are ready to pre-cum or cum, or the pull out approach will be ineffective.

Testing for sexually transmitted infections on a regular basis is critical.
Sexually transmitted infections are not protected by the pull-out approach (STI).

This means that, unless you are in a committed relationship in which all parties have been tested, you should get tested whenever you have unprotected sex.

If you’re in a committed relationship, regardless of your sexual history, get tested before participating in unprotected sex.

If you are not in a committed relationship, it is critical to engage in safe sex and to be tested prior to and following each sexual partner.

3. Is it effective?

Even with proper application, the pull out procedure is not 100% effective.

Indeed, 22% of women who use the pull out procedure become pregnant.

This is not because the pull out method is ineffective, but because it might be challenging to regulate the different variables involved.

4. What factors can render it ineffective?

Numerous factors can render the pull-out approach useless.

Pre-cum may include sperm, which means that even if you correctly remove it each and every time, there is a potential of conception.

Additionally, ejaculation time is not always predictable. Even someone with impeccable timing can make a mistake — and it only takes one to trigger pregnancy.

5. Is there anything else I can do to increase its effectiveness?

While the pull out approach is not flawless, there are ways to improve its effectiveness over time and this is one of the top Questions About the Pull Out Method you should know the answer to.

How to increase its effectiveness in the moment

Make use of spermicide. This over-the-counter (OTC) medication should be applied one hour prior to sexual activity. When handled properly, it has the ability to paralyze and destroy sperm. This aids in the prevention of fertilization.

Consider using a birth control sponge. Another over-the-counter method, the birth control sponge prevents pregnancy by the use of spermicide. The sponge is reusable for up to 24 hours, which allows you to insert it ahead of time or leave it in for many sessions.

How to improve its effectiveness in advance

Utilize a condom while practice. Not only does wearing a condom prevent against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but it also allows you to practice the pull out method risk-free. This means that the ejaculating spouse can concentrate on perfecting the timing without fear of unintended pregnancy.
Monitor ovulation. Additionally, the ovulating spouse might employ the fertility awareness method to aid in pregnancy prevention. This entails keeping track of when they become pregnant and abstaining from the pull out procedure, or intercourse in general, during their fertile window.
Utilize it as a secondary — not primary — form of birth control. Withdrawal might also be an excellent adjunct strategy. You can use it in conjunction with condoms, spermicide, or hormonal birth control to minimize your risk of pregnancy regardless of the time of month.
Consider stockpiling emergency contraceptives. If the pull-out approach is unsuccessful, emergency contraception may be used to avoid unwanted pregnancy.

6. What will happen if this procedure is unsuccessful?

Apart from abstinence, no technique of birth control is ideal.

What may happen if the pull out approach is unsuccessful:

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is possible at any point during sex when ejaculation happens. Pregnancy can occur only once. Take a pregnancy test if you suspect you may be pregnant following your missed period.

STIs.

The pull-out procedure is not immune to STIs. Consult a doctor or other healthcare provider if you believe you may have been exposed to a STI.

Between one and three months following unprotected sex, STI screening tests provide the most trustworthy findings.

7. Are there any benefits to using?

While some may dismiss the pull out method, it is an excellent alternative for those seeking convenient, non-hormonal birth control.

Several advantages of the pull out approach include the following:

It is completely free. Because not everyone can afford other methods of birth control, the pull out method is available to all.
It is not prescription-only. You do not need to purchase anything or visit a doctor to obtain a prescription. Another enticement? You are not responsible for insurance coverage or scheduling an appointment.
It’s practical. Because the pull out method is self-administered, it is an appealing choice if you are unable to utilize your regular method of birth control.
It has no adverse effects. Numerous methods of birth control might result in headaches, mood swings, and other undesirable side effects. The pull out procedure fully eliminates those!
It has been shown to increase the efficacy of other forms of birth control. Not everyone is comfortable with relying solely on one method of birth control. By using the pull out method, you can double your protection, lowering your risk of pregnancy even further.