What is the likelihood of pregnancy from withdrawal method during the safe period?

Apr 19, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
If a woman has a relatively regular menstrual cycle, her ovulation time is also fairly predictable. During the safe period, no ovulation occurs, and the chance of unintended pregnancy from withdrawal (coitus interruptus) is very low, making pregnancy unlikely. However, if the menstrual cycle is irregular, ovulation timing becomes unpredictable. With many factors affecting ovulation, there is no reliable safe period, significantly increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy.

If a woman's menstrual cycle is generally regular, the chance of pregnancy from coitus interruptus (withdrawal method) during the safe period is usually very low. However, if the menstrual cycle is irregular, the safe period cannot be accurately determined, and the risk of unintended pregnancy with coitus interruptus becomes significantly higher, although the exact probability is difficult to specify.

1. Low risk

If a woman has a relatively regular menstrual cycle, ovulation generally occurs at a predictable time. During the safe period, ovulation does not occur, so the likelihood of unintended pregnancy using the withdrawal method is very small, and pregnancy typically does not happen.

2. High risk

If the menstrual cycle is irregular, the timing of ovulation is unpredictable. Moreover, numerous factors can influence ovulation, making it difficult to identify a reliable safe period. With the withdrawal method, a small amount of semen may still enter the vagina and fertilize an egg, resulting in a high risk of unintended pregnancy.

The "safe period" is not absolutely safe or reliable and should not be used as a regular contraceptive method. If pregnancy is not desired, it is recommended to use more effective contraception such as condoms or oral contraceptives.