Ladies: Still Using The Withdrawal Method?

Are you playing a game of STD/baby roulette? It amazes me how many adults (and even children, AHHH!) are foregoing all of the many effective and convenient forms of birth control on the market. Pulling out should be a thing of the past at this point, but that is obviously not the case! A recent study at Duke University shows that 1/3 of women have used the pull-out/withdrawal/rhythm method at least once, and at least 21% of the 2,200 women (aged 15 -24) had become unintentionally pregnant.

What about STDs? Are we considering these risks? Are we really willing to put so much trust in ourselves or a horny guy? This could really pose a problem . I mean, have you seen how sex crazed men can get? It’s probably best not to put your precious parts and future (without child) in the hands of a man “in the mood”.

According to Silvana Ribaudo, M.D. the pull-out method, even when done “correctly”, can’t be solely relied on. You can still have an unplanned pregnancy or contract an STD. The pre-ejaculate fluid that he will secrete before an orgasm contains sperm. It’s quite understandable that this method is convenient and allows for more unplanned and spontaneous sexual acts, but is it worth the risk? Dr. Ribaudo says, “Making sure condoms are readily on-hand—the same way a woman on the Pill would keep her prescription filled—is one way to make sure you don’t end up in an unsafe situation.”

READ: Birth Control Basics

If you are anti-condoms, no worries! These aren’t the only form of effective birth control available. It’s best to consult with your doctor about which method would work best for you and your lifestyle. The safe way is the better way ladies, and of course, abstinence is always the 100% safe option! Find out which method is best for you with this tool that Planned Parenthood created. Here is a list of the many options out there: