If you’re describing what is called the ‘pull-out’ method; when the male pulls his penis out of the vagina before he ejaculates and no contraceptives are not being used like birth control pills or the patch, there is always a chance for pregnancy.
With the ‘pull-out’ method, 27 out of 100 couples typically get pregnant within the first year, which isn’t good odds.
Pregnancy with the ‘pull-out’ method can happen because of what’s called “pre-cum”, or “pre-ejaculation”. This is a fluid that sometimes contains sperm that comes out of the penis before ejaculation—this means that pregnancy could happen, even if the male pulls out before he fully ejaculates. And, sometimes the male doesn’t pull out in time, even though he meant to.
Also, the ‘pull-out’ method is NOT effective in preventing STDs, or HIV.
The first thing I would recommend is to check to see if you’re pregnant. You can do this a couple ways:
- Home pregnancy tests – are available at most drug stores and pharmacies. They work 99 out of 100 times if used after a missed period. They can be less effective if you take the pregnancy test too early, if you do not use it correctly, or if the expiration date has passed. Home pregnancy tests are pretty accurate if you follow instructions carefully, but you should have a test done at a health clinic to confirm your results.
- See your local doctor, tribal clinic, or go to a family planning clinic. If you’re not pregnant, they can help with STD testing and picking out a birth control option that will work best for you.
If you don’t want to get pregnant now or are concerned about getting an STD like HIV, make sure you use a condom every time you have sex. Check with your tribal clinic for free condoms.
Thanks for writing in!
Auntie Manda
