Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method? Expert Insights - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Will this lead to pregnancy?


Your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on February 12, and she has a regular cycle of 28 days.
You had unprotected intercourse on February 17 but withdrew before ejaculation.
Is there a chance of pregnancy?
While withdrawal can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not a foolproof method.
Pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm, and if any sperm were present, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
Given that her next expected period would be around March 12, it may be advisable to take a home pregnancy test if her period is late.
If there are any concerns or questions, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/18

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: If February 12 is confirmed as the first day of menstruation, the probability of pregnancy is very low.
Dr.
Cheng Jin-He, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Reply Date: 2005/02/18

More Info


The withdrawal method, also known as coitus interruptus, is a form of contraception where the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the female reproductive tract. While it may seem like a straightforward method, it is important to understand its effectiveness and the risks associated with it.

In your case, since your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is 28 days and her last period started on February 12, ovulation likely occurred around February 26, given that ovulation typically happens about 14 days before the next period begins. If you had unprotected intercourse on February 17 and withdrew before ejaculation, there is a possibility of pregnancy, albeit a relatively low one. However, it is crucial to note that pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, which means that even if you withdraw in time, there is still a risk of pregnancy.

The effectiveness of the withdrawal method varies widely among couples. Studies suggest that with perfect use, the failure rate is about 4%, but with typical use, it can be as high as 22%. This means that many couples relying on this method may experience unintended pregnancies. Factors that can contribute to failure include not withdrawing in time, the presence of sperm in pre-ejaculate, and the male partner's ability to control ejaculation.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable for your girlfriend to take a home pregnancy test if her period is late. Most home pregnancy tests are accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is positive, or if she has any concerns, she should consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

In terms of contraception, if you and your girlfriend are looking to avoid pregnancy, it may be beneficial to consider more reliable methods. Options include hormonal contraceptives (like the pill, patch, or IUD), barrier methods (like condoms), or long-acting reversible contraceptives (like implants or IUDs). These methods are generally more effective than the withdrawal method and can provide peace of mind.

In summary, while the withdrawal method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. If you are actively trying to prevent pregnancy, it is advisable to explore more reliable contraceptive options and have open discussions with your partner about your reproductive health and family planning.

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