Withdrawal Method of Contraception NHS

What is it?

• A form of birth control that is also known as "pulling out." The man removes his penis from the vagina before he comes (ejaculates).

How does it work?

• Ejaculation occurs outside the vagina so semen doesn’t enter vagina.

What’s great about it?

• Involves no hormones so, no side-effects, and periods are not affected.

What’s not so great about it?

• Least effective method in real life (approx. 22 out of 100 women become pregnant each year), but it’s better than using nothing.
• Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – condoms advised.
• Requires a degree of control by the man.
• Sometimes semen gets into the woman's vagina by accident.
• Some people find that withdrawal lessens sexual pleasure.

Additional Links

• https://www.brook.org.uk/our-services/start-my-contraception-tool
• https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/contraception-guide/Pages/contraception.aspx