Interrupted coitus: definition
Interrupted coitus is a natural contraceptive method which consists in the immediate and prompt interruption of sexual intercourse a few moments before ejaculation. In an attempt to avoid fertilization, the interrupted coitus therefore provides for the withdrawal of the penis from the vagina shortly before the intercourse: during these moments, the man must worry about directing the ejaculate away from the woman's external genitals.
In fact, interrupted coitus turns out to be a highly risky sexual method which, only apparently, is safe. In fact, in fact, neither a perfect self-control of man, nor his sexual experience, are sufficient to prevent fertilization. It is not rare that, before the actual ejaculation, a small quantity of seminal fluid can unconsciously escape, therefore reaching and fertilizing - in spite of itself - the egg.
Contraceptive safety
Although the unreliability of the method is now known, the interrupted coitus seems to constitute an extremely "tempting" sexual custom, especially among young and very young. Data in hand, it seems that as many as 40 million couples in the world use coitus interrupted as a first choice contraceptive method.
- The contraceptive method fails in 18-22% of cases .
However, everyone is free to experience sexuality as they see fit. It is therefore up to the couple to decide the contraceptive method that best suits their needs and needs, whether this is a risk-free or less safe contraceptive practice.
- Highly safe contraceptive methods for the prevention of unwanted pregnancies include: condom, birth control pills, minipill, vaginal ring, contraceptive patch and implantable contraceptives (IUD spiral and implantable sticks).
- In addition to the interrupted coitus, in the list of unsafe and unreliable contraceptive practices, we recall: natural contraceptive methods (Billings method, Ogino-Knauss, basal temperature method), chemical (spermicidal) and mechanical methods (diaphragm, cervical cap, vaginal sponges).
Why use it?
The inexperience and irresponsibility of a couple are not acceptable excuses for choosing coitus interrupted as a first choice contraceptive practice.
However, interrupted intercourse is generally practiced for various reasons:
- Increased sensitivity during intercourse: the condom may slightly reduce pleasure because it limits sensitive genital perceptions (especially male)
- Practicality of use: the interrupted intercourse does not require preparation or "training"
- Interrupted coitus does not cause the side effects typical of hormonal contraceptives (mood alteration, nausea, breast turgor, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, etc.)
- Zero economic cost
- No medical prescription needed
- Interrupted coitus does not trigger allergies to latex or excipients (typical adverse reactions derived from the use of condoms and birth control pills, respectively)
- It is a natural contraceptive method admitted by the Church
risks
Before choosing coitus interrupted as a first-choice contraceptive method, it is good to consider the risk-benefit balance, and always ask yourself if it is really worth "taking the risk" by indulging in similar attitudes.
Regular or infrequent use of interrupted coitus may be due to:
- Unwanted and unexpected pregnancies
- Sexually transmitted diseases (does not protect against diseases such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, candidiasis, trichomoniasis, condylomata acuminata, herpetic genital infections, AIDS, etc.)
- Post-performance anxieties and tensions
- Psychological stress and fear of being pregnant
- Increased risk of prostatitis and varicocele in humans
From what is reported in the manual " Human sexual inadequacy ", some researchers are convinced that the habitual use of interrupted coitus may increase the risk of premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
Disadvantages
For many couples, coitus interrupted interferes with the pleasure and intensity of intercourse, since the relationship must be stopped abruptly by the man. For the same reason, the interrupted coitus can be perceived as frustrating and unwelcome, both by the woman and by the man himself.
For the male, this "contraceptive" method requires an excellent mastery of his body, in order to interrupt the relationship at the right time.
Furthermore, a further and fundamental clarification must not be overlooked. After a first sexual intercourse - in which the practice of intercourse is interrupted - it is possible that some spermatozoa remain embedded in the urethra. In the absence of accurate intimate hygiene, immediately following sexual contact can expose the partner even more to the risk of pregnancy.
Who can use it?
There is no "right" or "wrong" contraceptive method. The important thing is that the planning of sex life is decided by both members of the couple.
What really matters is to savor eroticism, intimacy and sexual life in a peaceful and tranquil way, regardless of the chosen contraceptive method. Interrupted coitus, as repeatedly stated, is certainly not a safe contraceptive practice. However, this does not mean that a couple cannot choose it as a habitual contraceptive practice. Sexually mature men and women, married or living together, may prefer interrupted intercourse, but must accept the risks that they may incur in a positive way.
