Withdrawal method (coitus interruptus)

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Why it's done

By Mayo Clinic staff

The withdrawal method of contraception to prevent pregnancy has several benefits:

  • It's free and readily available
  • Has no side effects
  • Doesn't require a fitting or prescription

Some couples choose to use the withdrawal method because they don't want to use other contraceptive methods.

Risks Definition
References
  1. Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 20th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media Inc.; 2011.
  2. Zieman M. Overview of contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Feb. 2, 2012.
  3. Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 6, 2012.
MY01050 March 14, 2012

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