Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

With using the withdraw method, how long does it take to get pregnant on an average (does pre-cum make a significant difference)?

Answer

The withdrawal method of birth control is akin to using no birth control at all. It takes only one sperm to impregnate an egg and one drop of semen contains millions of sperm. (And "pre-cum" contains one to several drops!) Therefore, when using the withdrawal method you are exposing your partner to millions of sperm.

Additionally, if you have not both tested negative six months prior for the AIDS virus and been monogamous with only this partner, you may also be exposing each other to the AIDS virus and/or any variety of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).

Two forms of birth control are recommended for 100% safety; even the Pill has a 4% failure rate. Ideally, with a new partner, one of those two forms should be a condom to protect both you and your partner from AIDS and STDs. Minimally, use a condom everytime you have sex with a new partner.

1/01/99

Dr. Al Cooper, clinical director at the San Jose Marital and Sexuality Centre (408-248-9737), runs the training program for Counseling and Psychological Services at Stanford University. Dr. Cooper is internationally known for his work in sexuality and is freqently interviewed by the media. He currently writes a column in Men's Health Magazine.

Dr. Coralie Scherer coordinates online services for the Centre and specializes in sexual trauma, women's issues, and marital therapy.