What's the Chance of Pregnancy with Withdrawal Method?

Is the probability high?

My last menstrual cycle started on October 17, with a cycle length of about 24-26 days.
I had intimate relations on October 28, October 29, and November 5, but there was no ejaculation inside; it was always withdrawn.
Sometimes I used a condom, and sometimes I didn't.
Is there a chance of pregnancy? Thank you, doctor!

bo bo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/11

Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The withdrawal method may have a high failure rate due to the possibility of sperm being present in the pre-ejaculate fluid, so it is not recommended.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2006/11/11

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 to avoid pregnancy, its effectiveness is often questioned due to several factors.

Firstly, the effectiveness of the withdrawal method is highly variable. Studies suggest that with perfect use, the withdrawal method can have a failure rate of about 4%, meaning that 4 out of 100 couples using this method perfectly for a year may experience an unintended pregnancy. However, with typical use, which accounts for human error and inconsistency, the failure rate can rise to approximately 22%. This means that about 22 out of 100 couples relying on this method may conceive within a year.

Several factors contribute to the potential failure of the withdrawal method:
1. Pre-ejaculate Fluid: Before ejaculation, the male may release pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum), which can contain sperm. If the male has not urinated since his last ejaculation, this fluid can carry viable sperm, leading to the possibility of pregnancy even if withdrawal occurs before ejaculation.

2. Timing and Cycle Awareness: Understanding the female partner's menstrual cycle is crucial. If intercourse occurs during the fertile window (typically the days leading up to and including ovulation), the chances of pregnancy increase significantly. In your case, if your menstrual cycle is around 24-26 days, ovulation likely occurs around 10-14 days after the first day of your last menstrual period. Engaging in sexual activity during this time, even with withdrawal, increases the risk of pregnancy.

3. Inconsistent Use: The effectiveness of the withdrawal method diminishes with inconsistent use. If there are occasions when the male partner does not withdraw in time, or if there are instances of ejaculation inside the vagina, the risk of pregnancy increases.

4. Contraceptive Use: Using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy. However, if there are instances where a condom is not used, the risk of pregnancy is heightened.
Given your situation, where you had sexual intercourse multiple times with varying methods of withdrawal and condom use, there is a possibility of pregnancy, especially if any of those encounters occurred during your fertile window. If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, the most reliable way to determine this is through a home pregnancy test, which can be taken after a missed period for the most accurate result.

In conclusion, while the withdrawal method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. If you are actively trying to avoid pregnancy, consider using more reliable contraceptive methods, such as hormonal birth control, intrauterine devices (IUDs), or condoms. If you have further concerns or questions about your reproductive health, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and family planning goals.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pregnancy Risks: Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method?

Hello doctor, recently on November 3rd and November 6th, I had unprotected intercourse, and after withdrawal, I masturbated for a few dozen seconds before ejaculation. Each time I checked the glans after withdrawal, it was dry, and the pre-ejaculate fluid was previously attached ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method? Understanding the Risks

Having unprotected intercourse with withdrawal (coitus interruptus) two to three times a week for the past two months, especially with a partner who has a higher volume of pre-ejaculate fluid, can increase the risk of pregnancy. While the withdrawal method is not a reliable form ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is always important to take contraceptive measures for safety. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method During Low Fertility Days?

Today is a day with low chances of pregnancy. During intercourse with my boyfriend, we withdrew midway and he ejaculated through manual stimulation. Is there a possibility of getting pregnant from this?

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is still possible. Please pay attention to whether your menstrual period is delayed. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Pregnancy Risk with Withdrawal Method During Menstrual Cycle

Your girlfriend's menstrual period started on January 20 and intercourse occurred on January 24 with withdrawal (pull-out method). Her period ended on January 26. Since her menstrual cycle can vary by 1 to 2 days but typically lasts 5 to 7 days, the likelihood of pregnancy i...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, if your menstrual cycle is from day 1 to day 20, the chances of pregnancy are low. It is advisable to take appropriate contraceptive measures to avoid any concerns. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr. Chang.