Family Planning Plus

Withdrawal or the pull out method is not considered a very reliable method of birth control.  However, it is more effective when it is done correctly. Of every 100 women whose partners use withdrawal, four will become pregnant each year if the method is done perfectly.  Of every 100 women whose partners use withdrawal, 27 will become pregnant if withdrawal is not always performed correctly.  

Couples who have great self-control, experience, and trust tend to use the pull out method more effectively. The male partner must be able to know exactly when ejaculation is coming and must be able to pull out before any semen is deposited in the vagina.  Generally, younger or less experienced men have a more difficult time predicting the time of ejaculation and have more difficulty pulling out in time. 

However, even if a man pulls out in time, pregnancy is still possible because of pre-seminal fluid (also called pre-ejaculate).  Pre-seminal fluid leaks out of the penis prior to ejaculation.  Sometimes this fluid contains sperm that is left in the urethra from a previous ejaculation.  If a man urinates between ejaculations before having sex again, it will help clear the urethra of sperm and may increase the effectiveness of withdrawal.    

Pregnancy is also possible if semen or pre-ejaculate is spilled on the vulva (the external female genital area that contains the labia or lips, the clitoris, the vagina, and the urethra). Also, withdrawal does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.  When used consistently and correctly, condoms can reduce the risk of infection.

Since pregnancy is possible in your case because of pre-seminal fluid, you can reduce your risk of pregnancy by using Plan B.

Plan B One-step is a pill you can take after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. It works best if it is used within the first 24 hours after sex but can be used up to 120 hours (or five days) after  unprotected sex with decreased effects after the first three days.  The sooner you use Plan B, the more effective it is.

Plan B works by delaying ovulation (the monthly release of an egg), and possibly by interfering with fertilization (the union of sperm and egg) and implantation (when the fertilized egg implants itself into the uterine lining. If you are already pregnant, it will not terminate the pregnancy. According to the manufacturer, the treatment prevents seven of eight pregnancies that otherwise would have occurred.

If you are 17 or older, you can purchase Plan B at most drug stores without a prescription. You will need to ask the pharmacist for Plan B as it is located behind the counter. You may also need to show ID to prove your age. Plan B is around $50. If you are under 17, you will need a prescription from a doctor. You can also get Plan B from a Family Planning or Planned Parenthood clinic. We offer Plan B at all of our clinics at a reduced cost. Some individuals qualify for free services.

One of the most common side effects of Plan B use is menstrual irregularity.  Therefore, your next period could be earlier than usual, later than usual, or spotty (meaning you may bleed for a few days, stop, and then bleed some more).  If you miss your next period by one week or more, take a pregnancy test. If it is negative, repeat the test every two weeks until you either have a normal period or a positive test result.

Just remember that Plan B should not be used as a regular method of birth control as it is less effective than other methods.  If you are going to continue to have sexual intercourse, it is best to use another more reliable form of birth control.  If you live near one of our offices, please call us for an appointment. We can talk with you about all of your contraceptive options and help you choose one that’s best for you. If you live further away, contact the Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office closest to you.