How it works
Withdrawal, also called coitus interruptus, is when the man withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. The goal is to keep semen out of the vagina so sperm cannot reach the egg. Withdrawal does not protect against STIs.
How well it works
With perfect use, withdrawal is 96% effective. Typical use is about 80% because timing is hard to control and pre-ejaculate may contain some sperm. A 2024 pilot study found sperm in about 13% of pre-ejaculate samples, though roughly 75% of participants had no sperm in any sample. Withdrawal is free, always available, and has no hormones or devices. It works well as a backup method or when combined with another method, and it is less effective than several other contraceptive methods, so it may not be the right choice if you need highly reliable pregnancy prevention.
Where to get it
Withdrawal requires no prescription, device, or clinic visit. If you want to combine it with a more reliable method, search our provider directory for clinics near you.
