August 25, 2022

I will say this again: The ‘Pull Out Method’ is not a valid form of contraception

Contraceptives come in many shapes and sizes. They can be eaten, injected, implanted, and worn. There are literally hundreds of options for different kinds to prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted diseases. 

Yet some would say there is also contraceptive ‘methods’ to stop pregnancy, and when it comes to anal and oral, you’re correct. However, in no case, in no way, is the pull-out method a valid form of contraception. 

Let’s lay this out. The Pull Out method is when a male pulls out his penis from the vagina just before he ejaculates. Most likely dumping himself on her back or stomach. The pull-out method is not just for heterosexual couples, but for argument’s sake let’s talk about the risk of pregnancy. 

When I was younger I believed anyone who used the pull-out method was secretly hoping to get pregnant. Today, I still have to believe that. Because in no way would a rational person who didn’t want a child think the old scoop and shoot works. 

Family Planning defines the pull-out method as the Withdrawal method and states “Where a person withdraws their penis from the vagina before ejaculation. This is not an effective method of contraception.”

In fact, and unfortunately, according to the Family Planning Contraceptive Use Survey, 29% of the people surveyed had used the Withdrawal method. While 6% of the people surveyed were still using the method. 

It’s fair that in some cases the Withdrawal method may be a way for people to think they’re being safe, as there are many reasons people report not using contraceptives. 

According to the survey, 16% reported they just didn’t want to use it, 18% said they were scared of the side effects and 27% said that it interferes with the body’s natural processes.  

These are all fair assessments, and as an individual, you’re entitled to pick and choose the forms for contraceptive use that suit you. However, the argument here is that the pull-out method is not a form of contraception, and therefore shouldn’t be included within the same thinking.

So why doesn’t it work?

Well, the penis begins leaking what’s known as ‘precum’ as soon as it’s fully erect. Precum is a fluid exuded from the penis during arousal but before climax. It is a natural lubricant during sex but carries risks of pregnancy and STIs.

If you are removing the penis before this happens, then you have an 80% success rate. However, this fluid comes out involuntarily and without the user knowing. 

Even if you pull out right before you climax, pre-cum is still likely to enter your partner’s vagina. And research shows that can lead to unintended pregnancy. One 2018 study estimates that 18 percent of couples who use the withdrawal method will become pregnant in a year. 

So look. Your body is your responsibility. If you want to pull out then, by all means, go for gold. However please do not use this as your main method of contraception. It is not effective and for no means should it even be considered a way to prevent pregnancy.