Key Points for Providers and Clients

Always available in every situation.
Can be used as a primary method or as a backup method.
Requires no supplies and no clinic or pharmacy visit.

One of the least effective contraceptive methods.
Some men use this method effectively, however. Offers better pregnancy protection than no method at all.
Promotes male involvement and couple communication.

Withdrawal

What Is Withdrawal?

The man withdraws his penis from his partner’s vagina and ejaculates outside the vagina, keeping his semen away from her external genitalia.
Also known as coitus interruptus and “pulling out.”
Works by keeping sperm out of the woman’s body.

How Effective?

Effectiveness depends on the user: risk of pregnancy is greatest when the man does not withdraw his penis from the vagina before he ejaculates with every act of sex.

One of the least effective methods, as commonly used.
As commonly used, about 27 pregnancies per 100 women whose partner uses withdrawal over the first year. This means that 73 of every 100 women whose partners use withdrawal will not become pregnant.
When used correctly with every act of sex, about 4 pregnancies per 100 women whose partners use withdrawal over the first year.

Return of fertility after use of withdrawal is stopped: no delay

Protection against sexually transmitted infections: none

Side Effects, Health Benefits, and Health Risks

None

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