Voor het zingen de kerk uit? - Verloskundigen PuurBegin in Kampen

Bee Midwives PuurBegin in Kampen we believe it is essential to break through misunderstandings about contraception. One topic that is often misunderstood is coitus interruptus, or “leaving the church before singing”. Although this method has been used for centuries, it is crucial to emphasize: coitus interruptus is not a reliable method of contraceptionIn this blog we explain why this practice is risky and why it has no place in a responsible contraceptive plan.

What is coitus interruptus anyway?

Coitus interruptus involves the man withdrawing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation. Although this is seen by some as a way to prevent pregnancy, there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. It is not a method recommended by health care professionals, and there are good reasons for this.

The term “contraceptive method” implies a certain degree of reliability and control, but coitus interruptus lacks both. Unlike proven methods such as condoms, the pill or the IUD, it offers no structural protection against pregnancy. In fact, it is one of the least reliable ways to prevent conception.

The biological risks: Why it often goes wrong

Pre-ejaculate can contain sperm cells

A persistent misconception is that pre-ejaculate does not contain sperm. While it is true that pre-ejaculate primarily serves as a lubricant, it is not always free from sperm. In some men, there may be remnants of sperm cells in the urethra, for example after a previous ejaculation. This means that even before orgasm, small amounts of semen can enter the vagina.

Even though the chance of this happening is statistically smaller than with complete ejaculation, the risk remains real. A study in Human Reproduction showed that 41% of the pre-ejaculate samples examined contained sperm, sometimes in quantities sufficient for fertilizationThis underscores why coitus interruptus is not a safe option.

Why is it sometimes seen as a “method”?

Some couples see coitus interruptus as an attractive option because of its natural nature and lack of hormonal side effects. However, these are not valid arguments to consider it as a contraceptive. The absence of hormones does not automatically mean that something is safe.

In addition, cultural and historical context plays a role. Before the advent of modern contraception, coitus interruptus was one of the few options, but that doesn’t make it effective. The fact that something has “always been done” doesn’t mean it’s wise.

The dangers of unreliability

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), coitus interruptus has a practice failure rate of 20–27% per yearThis means that approximately 1 in 4 women who use this method will become pregnant within a year.

These figures show that coitus interruptus is not only unreliable, but also considerably riskier than other methods. For couples who absolutely want to avoid pregnancy, it is simply not an option.

The lack of protection against STDs

An additional risk is that coitus interruptus offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Unlike condoms, which prevent both pregnancy and infections help prevent, this practice leaves both risks completely uncovered. Even if a couple is only concerned about pregnancy, it is wiser to opt for a double layer of protection.

Why do we advise against it?

At Verloskundigen PuurBegin we use an evidence-based approach. Scientific research shows that coitus interruptus carries too many risks to be considered a serious method of contraception. It is our job to point couples to methods that do work, such as:

Condoms: Protect against pregnancy and STDs.
Hormonal contraceptionFor example, the pill, injection or hormonal IUD.
Long-acting methods: Such as the copper coil or sterilization.

For couples who consciously choose a non-hormonal approach, there are better alternatives, such as the copper IUD or fertility awareness methods (FAM) in combination with barrier methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. “But isn't it better than doing nothing?”
Even if coitus interruptus has a lower chance of pregnancy, it is still a gamble. Contraception is all about reliability and this method lacks that completely. Why take a risk when there are safer options?

2. “My partner and I have been using it for years without any problems. Why should we stop?”
Happiness is not a strategy. Statistics show that many couples have initial “success,” but an unintended pregnancy is often a matter of time. In addition, a latent desire to have children unconsciously playing along – consciously choosing contraception provides clarity.

Midwives PuurBegin's message: Choose certainty

Our team stands for honest, transparent information. Coitus interruptus does not fit into that picture, because the act gives a false sense of security. We are happy to help you find a method that does suit you, whether you choose hormonal, non-hormonal, temporary or permanent.

Conclusion

Coitus interruptus is not a method of contraception, but a risky practice with a high margin of error. For couples who are serious about preventing pregnancy, there are many better options available.

Continue to take good care of yourself and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Together we ensure the most comfortable pregnancy possible.

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