Does coitus interruptus (withdrawal method) have any impact on the physical health of both men and women?
Apr 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, ejaculation outside the body may affect the physical health of both men and women, including impacts on male reproductive system health, reduced male sexual pleasure, male sexual dysfunction, effects on female reproductive system health, and an increased risk of urinary tract infections. To avoid these adverse effects, it is recommended that both partners use safer and more effective contraceptive methods during sexual activity.
Generally, coitus interruptus (withdrawal method) may affect the physical health of both men and women, including impacts on male reproductive system health, reduced male sexual pleasure, potential male sexual dysfunction, effects on female reproductive system health, and increased risk of urinary tract infections. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Impact on male reproductive system health
During coitus interruptus, men may need to abruptly stop intercourse and forcefully control ejaculation. This can cause uncoordinated contractions of related pelvic floor muscles, such as the pelvic floor muscles and urethral sphincter. Long-term practice may lead to dysfunction of these muscles, potentially causing diseases like seminal vesiculitis and affecting the normal function of the reproductive system.
2. Reduced male sexual pleasure
Because men must constantly monitor the timing of ejaculation and prepare to withdraw the penis, they may be unable to fully relax during sexual intercourse, remaining in a state of mental tension. This can distract attention, impair the buildup of sexual excitement, and reduce the experience of sexual pleasure, potentially leading to decreased libido over time.
3. Potential male sexual dysfunction
Coitus interruptus, as an unnatural ejaculation method, may cause men to develop anxiety or fear regarding ejaculation. Prolonged psychological stress may interfere with the brain's normal regulation of the ejaculation reflex, increasing the likelihood of sexual dysfunction issues such as premature ejaculation or anejaculation.
4. Impact on female reproductive system health
During coitus interruptus, small amounts of semen may already have leaked into the vagina before the penis is withdrawn. Sperm in this semen may result in unintended pregnancy for women. Frequent unintended pregnancies and subsequent procedures such as abortions can damage female reproductive organs like the endometrium and fallopian tubes, increasing the risk of conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease and fallopian tube blockage, which may ultimately lead to infertility in severe cases.
5. Increased risk of urinary tract infections
For women, if semen comes into contact with the external genitalia during coitus interruptus, it may increase the chance of bacterial infection. Bacteria can travel upward, potentially causing urinary tract infections such as urethritis or cystitis. For men, abruptly stopping intercourse and withdrawing the penis may alter pressure within the urethra, making it easier for bacteria in the urethra to flow backward into areas such as the prostate, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.
To avoid these adverse effects, couples are advised to use safer and more effective contraceptive methods during sexual activity, such as using condoms or intrauterine devices (IUDs), to ensure both partners' physical health and sexual quality of life.
