How Safe Is the Pull-Out Method?
The rate for optimal use of condoms is 2 percent, authors report. However, for most couples, the "typical" rates of failure apply - 18 percent for withdrawal and 17 percent for condoms. And that figure can increase, depending on the couple and the man's level of control over ejaculating. Even when he pulls out completely, it's possible that the seminal fluid that enters the vagina beforehand can impregnate the woman. And even when done correctly, the method does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. The new data about its effectiveness worries some experts, due to the fact that teens who would be embarrassed to buy contraceptives would use it to prevent pregnancy. For monogamous couples trying to prevent pregnancy, withdrawal seems to be a viable option to consider along with other, more effective methods, such as oral contraceptives and IUDs.