How effective is the pull out method (withdrawal) during sex as a form of birth control?

The withdrawal method during sex is also known as Coitus Interruptus. It refers to the practice of withdrawing the penis from the vagina and away from a woman's private parts before ejaculation. The ultimate aim of this birth control method is to prevent sperm from entering the vagina.

You may appreciate that the withdrawal method for birth control requires a lot of self-control.

However, studies have shown that the withdrawal method is not an especially effective form of birth control because:

• If the withdrawal is not properly timed, sperm may enter the vagina.
• Pre-ejaculation fluid may contain sperm.

Some couples think that the withdrawal method offers protection from sexually transmitted infections but this is just a myth.

The other downside of using this birth control method is that it puts the couple under a lot of tension as timing is of great importance. The couple may find the experience less pleasurable and enjoyable. It may be advisable for the couple to seek advice from a family medicine practitioner to discuss if alternative contraceptive methods are more practical and reliable.

The withdrawal method is an extremely unreliable method of birth control as there may be the presence of pre-ejaculate which can also contain sperm. The timing of withdrawal may also be incorrect.

A woman in her 40s will still stand a chance of pregnancy as long as she has not undergone menopause yet (though chances are lower compared to women in their 20s or 30s).

I encourage you to consider proper, safe and effective birth control methods to prevent an unwanted pregnancy if you are considering birth control methods.

You may refer to this article here for more information: https://www.human.com.sg/guide-birth-control-singapore-costs-and-options.