Withdrawal

WITHDRAWAL

IT HAPPENS IN THE MOMENT.

A TEST OF YOUR TIMING

There's no science involved in the withdrawal method, probably because it pre-dates science as we know it. It simply involves the man removing his penis from the vagina before climax. It requires a lot of self-control and trust, and therefore it can be a pretty unreliable method of contraception. Not all sperm are released when a man ejaculates, so even if he pulls out before orgasm, you could still get pregnant.
The withdrawal method involves a lot of control on the part of the man, who must be aware of when he is reaching climax so he pulls out when ejaculation can no longer be postponed. Pre-ejaculate, or 'pre-cum', contains some sperm, and as such your doctor or nurse will likely not recommend it as a method of contraception.

Withdrawal

HOW IT MEASURES UP

HORMONES

No. Withdrawal is hormone-free.

EASE OF USE

Withdrawal needs to be performed during intercourse, each time you have sex.

YOUR PERIOD

Withdrawal has no impact on menstruation.

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HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

6%

The percentage of women in unions who use withdrawal as their primary contraceptive.

1
SPERM

A sperm is all it takes to fertilize an egg.

6
HOURS

The length of time sperm can live outside the body.

  • It’s hormone-free and can be an option for women who experience unwanted effects from hormones.
  • It can be used when breastfeeding.
  • It’s self-directed.
  • It requires the male partner to have perfect timing to be at all effective, which can be risky.
  • It interrupts sex.
  • It doesn’t protect against HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

NEED ADVICE?

Get ready to speak to a doctor or nurse. Use a 3-step guide to prepare for your next doctor’s appointment.

Is It Okay?

CONSIDER THIS

This approach is entirely self-directed, and requires a lot of planning and tracking. Those who wish to avoid unplanned pregnancy should use a hormone-free barrier method when ovulating, or if menstrual cycles are irregular. For protection from STIs, condoms must be used.

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CONSIDER THIS

Withdrawal has a huge capacity for human error. As some sperm can be released before orgasm, the withdrawal method should only be considered if you’re comfortable with the risk of conceiving. It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

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