Withdrawal Method

What is the withdrawal method?

• The man withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. The hope is that fertilization will be prevented because the sperm do not enter the vagina. However, it is possible to get pregnant from pre-ejaculate fluid before the man withdraws his penis.

Does it protect against pregnancy?

• Effectiveness depends on the male's ability to withdraw before ejaculation.
  
• Because this method requires great self-control and experience, this is not a recommended birth control method for teens.
  
• Pre-ejaculate can contain enough sperm to cause pregnancy. Also, if semen or pre-ejaculate spill on the vulva, pregnancy is possible.

Does it protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

• No, withdrawal doesn't provide protection from STIs, including HIV.
  
• Infectious diseases can be transmitted by direct contact with surface lesions and by pre-ejaculatory fluid.

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Additional Outside Sources

Below are additional resources. Some are links to other Internet pages, which might have information on health topics of interest to you. PAMF, however, does not sponsor or endorse any of these sites, nor does PAMF guarantee the accuracy of the information contained on them. In addition, PAMF has no control over the privacy practices of external Web sites. The user should read and understand the policies of all Web sites with respect to their privacy practices. These links are provided for your general information and education only, and should NOT be relied upon for personal diagnosis or treatment. If you have questions, please contact your health care provider.

Planned Parenthood. Birth Control [Online]. Accessed March 2008.

The National Women's Health Information Center. Birth Control Methods [Online]. Accessed March 2008.
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