Withdrawal method, also called “pulling out” is not recommended as a method of contraception, but is more effective than using no contraception.
The withdrawal method is when the penis is withdrawn (pulled out) of the vagina before ejaculation (cumming). It is not recommended as a method of contraception, especially for young people, but is more effective than using no contraception.
If you use withdrawal correctly, it can be up 96% effective at preventing pregnancy. It might only be up to 80% effective if you or your partner pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) or were unable to withdraw. It can be difficult to know if your partner has pre-ejaculated, which is why this method is not recommended if you are not planning to get pregnant.
The withdrawal method works by lowering the chance of sperm entering the vagina. But if the penis is not pulled out at the right time it is possible for some sperm to get into the vagina. Sperm might also be in the pre-ejaculate (pre-cum).
The withdrawal method is totally dependent on a male partner and their self-control. They’ve got to make sure he pulls out before he ejaculates AND they’ve got to keep his semen away from your vagina when they do. So it’s really important that the male partner understands their own sexual response patterns.
You’ve got to do it right—every single time—for withdrawal to be effective.
Everyone is different, so there are no universal signals to look out for. Communicating with your partner will help. If you want to use withdrawal for contraception but your partner is unsure what their signals are, practice with a condom first, or it might be fun to mess around without penetrative sex to learn their “I’m getting close” quirks.
If you think your partner has forgotten to withdraw, or did not withdraw in time, and did not use other contraception, you may need emergency contraception. Find out more about Copper IUD or Emergency Contraceptive Pill.
Note: Wāhine/women+ includes consideration of whānau and social context and is intended to be inclusive of gender diverse people who share some of the health needs of women but do not identify as women. (RANZCOG, 2022)
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A non-hormonal (Copper) IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device which contains copper. It is put into the uterus (womb). A Copper IUD does not contain hormones. The copper IUD can also be used as an Emergency Contraception.
LASTS FROM 5 TO 10 YEARS | PLACED IN THE UTERUS | EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION – UP TO 5 DAYS AFTER SEX
A Hormonal IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device, which contains the hormone progestogen to control your fertility. The device is put into the uterus (womb).
HORMONES | LASTS FROM 3 TO 5 YEARS | PLACED IN THE UTERUS | EFFECTIVE IN 7 DAYS
Two small, flexible plastic rods that are placed just under the skin in the upper arm. The implant releases the hormone progestogen to control fertility.
HORMONES | LASTS UP TO 5 YEARS | PLACED IN THE ARM | EFFECTIVE IN 7 DAYS
