Yes, 'Pulling Out' Can Still Get You Pregnant

Unless you're on birth control, using condoms during sex is an obvious thing to do. Unless, of course, you are looking to get pregnant. But many of us who aren't on birth control or looking to get pregnant often skip this important step before sex - because we think we can just wing it. "Just let him pull out before he ejaculates". That's not a thought most are unfamiliar with. What you need to know is that while it may seem like an okay or even a fun thing to do in the heat of the moment, it could land you in a less than ideal situation. A moment of mindfulness before sex, can save you from a lot of trouble.

Let us explain the basics of the 'pull out method'.

1. What Is The 'Pull Out' Method?

Pulling out or the withdrawal method is a way to prevent pregnancy by pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation. If the semen enters the vulva or vagina, you can get pregnant. Yes, it's as simple as that. Ejaculating away from the vagina, if not using condoms or on the pill, is the only way to prevent pregnancy.

2. How Effective Is The Pull Out Method?

The reality is that the pull out method is not as effective as other forms of birth control. It requires complete accuracy. Withdrawal takes a lot of self-control and understanding of one's body. In order to get it right, it is important that the penis is all the way out of the vagina before ejaculation. There is no room for error with this method and even if a little bit of the semen gets into the vagina or vulva, it could lead to a possible pregnancy.

Pulling out works best if used with other forms of birth control, such as condoms or pills.

The withdrawal method is often a fail because while the plan is to pull out during ejaculation, it's easy to change your mind. Yes, it happens, doesn't it? It's not completely unnatural to forget or just be unable to resist the urge to cum inside in the heat of the moment. Many people also ejaculate before they realize or think they are ready to. It's what we call premature ejaculation. It's real.

3. Why Is Pulling Out Not A Recommended Form Of Birth Control?

Other than the fact that it is not 100% successful in preventing pregnancy, pulling out cannot protect you from sexually transmitted diseases either. There are many STDs that spread through skin contact and many that can be transmitted through pre-cum. Pre-cum is the liquid that oozes out of the penis before ejaculation during sexual excitement. For some people, it can carry a small amount of sperm and thus result in pregnancy.

Here you have it, ladies. Just a friendly reminder that if you're sexually active and don't want to get pregnant just yet, use some form of contraceptives or birth control.

Sources - 1, 2