Print OverviewThe withdrawal method of contraception (coitus interruptus) happens when you take the penis out of the vagina and ejaculate outside the vagina to try to prevent pregnancy. The goal of the withdrawal method — also called "pulling out" — is to keep sperm from entering the vagina. Using the withdrawal method for birth control requires self-control. Even then, the withdrawal method isn't an especially effective form of birth control. Sperm may enter the vagina if withdrawal isn't properly timed or if pre-ejaculation fluid contains sperm. The withdrawal method doesn't offer protection from sexually transmitted infections.Products & ServicesBook: Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy PregnancyBook: Mayo Clinic Guide to Fertility and ConceptionShow more products from Mayo Clinic Why it's donePeople use the withdrawal method to try to prevent pregnancy. Among various benefits, the withdrawal method: Is free and readily available Has no side effects Doesn't require a fitting or prescription Some couples choose to use the withdrawal method because they don't want to use other contraceptive methods. RisksUsing the withdrawal method to prevent pregnancy doesn't pose any direct risks. But it doesn't offer protection from sexually transmitted infections. Some couples also feel that the withdrawal method disrupts sexual pleasure. The withdrawal method isn't as effective at preventing pregnancy as other forms of birth control. It's estimated that one in five couples who use the withdrawal method for one year will get pregnant. What you can expectTo use the withdrawal method, you need to: Properly time withdrawal. When you feel like ejaculation is about to happen, withdraw the penis from the vagina. Make sure that ejaculation occurs away from the vagina. Take precautions before having sex again. If you plan to have sex again soon, urinate and clean off the tip of the penis first. This will help remove any remaining sperm from the last ejaculation. If ejaculation isn't properly timed and you're concerned about pregnancy, talk with your health care provider about emergency contraception. By Mayo Clinic Staff Request an appointment May 07, 2022 Print Share on: FacebookTwitter Show references Hatcher RA, et al., eds. Coitus interruptus (withdrawal, pulling out). In: Contraceptive Technology. 21st ed. Ayer Company Publishers; 2018. Dehlendorf C. Contraception: Counseling and selection. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 7, 2022. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Coitus interruptus (withdrawal). https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/mmwr/mec/appendixh.html. Accessed March 7, 2022. Related Pre-ejaculation fluid and pregnancy Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Fertility and Conception Show more products and services from Mayo Clinic Withdrawal method (coitus interruptus)About Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceNEW – Future Care - Mayo Clinic PressNEW – Future CareMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book PRC-20395273 Patient Care & Health Information Tests & Procedures Withdrawal method