Pulling Out Might Work Better Than You Think (But Keep Using Condoms)
3:31 AM
The pull out method of contraception has a pretty bad reputation, and for good reason! Just not the reason you might think. As Laci Green of Sex+ explains, if done properly, pulling out has only about a 4% failure rate. However, that number skyrockets if you do it improperly, as many do.
As Laci points out, common problems with the pullout method involve failing to account for precum, a lubricating fluid that clears out the urethra and can sometimes carry sperm from a previous ejaculation along with it. The pullout method can also fail if you don't have proper self-control or know your own body, or even by getting semen on or near the vagina.
The bigger takeaway, however, is that using multiple methods of contraception together are far better than any one method individually. We don't advise using just the pull out method, but if you're going to, combining it with condoms, the pill, or virtually any other method of birth control will be better than counting on your self-control during sex.
More importantly, learn how to use each of your contraception methods effectively, or the failure rate increases dramatically. Laci's video above will teach you more about pulling out. The National AIDS Fund has a video here on the proper application of a condom, and you can read more about its use and effectiveness at Planned Parenthood here.
