Contraception

Methods of Contraception: Contraceptive Methods for Men

Withdrawal
The withdrawal method, also known by its Latin name coitus interruptus (better: coitus abruptus), is probably the oldest method of contraception. It simply means that, when having intercourse, the man suddenly withdraws his penis from the woman's vagina just before he ejaculates (this does not interrupt the coitus, but actually ends it). As a result, his sperm is not deposited inside the woman's body and therefore cannot fertilize the egg.
While this sounds convincing in theory, it does not always work in practice. Many men have difficulty finding the right moment for withdrawal. The resulting worry and the need to control sexual reactions at all times can create considerable tension between sexual partners. It is also possible that some sperm is released from the penis well in advance of the actual ejaculation. Furthermore, even sperm cells that have been ejaculated outside the vagina can move inside by themselves as long as they are in contact with a moist surface. For these reasons, withdrawal is not a reliable method of contraception. Its only advantage is the fact that it needs no preparation and can be used anytime. However, its disadvantages are so serious that most people will find it appropriate only in unusual circumstances, when no other methods are available.