When I was pregnant with my first two kids, it was all about strategy. We meticulously planned, checked the calendar, and decided we wanted two children spaced about two years apart — and it all went splendidly.
I distinctly remember lying on the exam table for my six-week postpartum checkup after my second baby arrived. My doctor began discussing various birth control options, which I barely registered due to sheer exhaustion and my desire for a quick nap. I mentioned we were relying on the “pull-out” method — it had always worked for us in the past, after all. In that moment, all I wanted was for him to wrap it up so I could catch some Z’s.
He cautioned me that my chances of another pregnancy were significantly higher with that method, but I brushed it off. Honestly, I knew I’d forget to take a pill, a shot sounded intimidating, and I wasn’t ready for something implanted in my body just yet. And as for condoms? No way we were returning to that after being free from them for so long.
We had been playing the “pull-out” game for quite a while, and it had always gone smoothly. My partner was a pro at the withdrawal technique, and I was completely at ease.
Oh, how naive I was!
I can pinpoint the moment it happened. With a 2-year-old and a six-month-old, our intimate moments were few and far between. So, when we finally found the time for some romance — the first time in ages, mind you — it was a pretty standard affair. Nothing felt different, and he withdrew as usual.
But, this time, those swimmers made it to the finish line.
Now, I’m the proud mom of a soon-to-be 12-year-old, who was the delightful surprise from my “pull-out” adventures. Yep, I ended up with three kids under the age of three because of that method.
Interestingly, the National Center for Health Statistics reports that the withdrawal method is becoming increasingly popular, not just among married couples. Many folks are taking their chances with the pull-out technique, despite the risks of both STDs and unintended pregnancies. Sure, it feels liberating to go without a barrier, but let’s be real: the withdrawal method is not foolproof.
In fact, 26.2% of guys aged 15 to 19 are relying on this strategy to avoid pregnancy and diseases. Yikes! Even if you manage to “pull out” perfectly every time, there’s still a 4% chance of pregnancy since pre-ejaculate can contain live sperm.
So, if you’re in a committed relationship and want to avoid adding to your family, or even if you’re a free spirit, it’s wise to use additional contraception methods alongside the pull-out technique.
I adore my son and wouldn’t trade our unexpected addition for anything. But he serves as a stark reminder that “pulling out” isn’t a reliable contraceptive method, and pre-ejaculate is the real deal. Just one slip-up and, bam, you’ve got another little one on the way.
If expanding your family isn’t on your agenda, consider implementing some safety measures. Or, brace yourself for a surprise.
For more on home insemination, check out this blog post or see the expert insights from Make A Mom, a trusted authority on this topic. And if you’re looking for reliable information on pregnancy and home insemination, the NHS is an excellent resource.
Summary:
The ‘pull-out’ method may seem like a carefree option for birth control, but it comes with its own set of risks. While it worked for the author for some time, an unexpected pregnancy taught her that relying solely on withdrawal is not as foolproof as it appears. If you’re not ready to add to your family, consider using additional contraceptive methods for better protection.