The pull-out method, also called the withdrawal method, can be used to avoid unwanted pregnancy. However, like all birth control method, there are advantages and disadvantages. People wanting to use the pull-out method for birth control should discuss this option with their doctor to determine if it is right for them.
Function
The pull-out method of birth control is implemented by the man pulling his penis out of the vagina prior to ejaculation during sexual intercourse. According to the American Pregnancy Association, this decreases the likelihood of semen reaching the uterus and fertilizing an egg.
Benefits
This method of birth control has many benefits. It is one of the few free methods of birth control available and does not require a prescription or the use of synthetic hormones. It also does not interrupt foreplay, as some barrier methods of birth control do, and is one of the few birth control methods a man can control. In addition, this method is easily able to be combined with other birth control methods to increase effectiveness, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
Considerations
The male partner has complete responsibility for birth control using this method. The woman must be able to trust her partner to pull out in time and be comfortable with the fact that she will have no control over the final outcome. Women who do not feel comfortable with this may want to consider other birth control options that give more control to the woman to use in conjunction with this method.
Effectiveness
The American Pregnancy Association lists the typical failure rate for this method of birth control to be around 18 to 19 percent, while the Mayo Clinic lists failure rates as high as 27 percent. Both organizations agree this method of birth control is not generally effective at preventing pregnancy on its own. This may be due to the fact that some men have difficulty pulling out in time before ejaculating and also because a small amount of semen may be released prior to ejaculation. Although the amount of sperm in this pre-ejaculation fluid is small, it may be enough to fertilize an egg. However, although this may not be the most effective birth control option to use on its own, combining the pull-out method with other birth control options can increase the effectiveness and reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy.
Warning
Although the pull-out method may reduce the chance of an unwanted pregnancy, it is not effective at protecting against sexually transmitted diseases. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the small amount of semen released before ejaculation can then mix with the bodily fluid of the vagina to transmit infections. People worried about contracting a sexually transmitted disease should talk to their doctor about other forms of birth control that may be more appropriate for them.
