Have you heard the chatter lately about birth control free sex? New York Magazine dubs us 20-something’s “The Pull Out Generation”. While the idea of ditching prophylactic’s altogether sounds like a dream come true, there are many factors to consider before the glove comes off. Like…
1. STD’s?
Barrier methods like condoms (both male and female) offer unmatched protection from embarrassing and life threatening STI’s. Losing the protection shouldn’t be an option if you aren’t in a trusting/committed relationship. Leaving your life up to chance for a lusty one night stand or an uncommitted partner is risky behavior.
2. Shark Week
Have you ever seen a picture of a shark brain? Affectionately referring to our ever-frustrating menstrual cycles as shark week is totally fitting. Although we may experience horrifying side effects from hormonal birth control, the one benefit we can count on is shorter, lighter flows. If you’re one of those poor women doubled over for a week due to menstrual pain, be very sure when you abandon the hormones altogether.
3. Self Control
In order to perfect the pull-out method, you have to protect yourself on the days that you are ovulating. When you’re most likely to conceive you have to take precautions, either turn down sex for the night or be diligent about your back up method– condoms. You also have to trust your partner to pull-out right before the Big O to prevent any accidental pregnancies.
5. Pregnancy
Remember in health class when the teacher warned us about semen in the “pre-ejaculate” fluid? Even if your man has 100% accuracy with pulling out, there is still a margin for error and pregnancy. One wrong cycle calculation or drunken sloppy night and you could be looking at that scary blue line. Talk to your man about how you two will handle a positive prego test. Make sure you’re on the same page, otherwise you could face a Rasheeda/Kirk LHHA situation. Yikes!
6. Is this the last resort?
So, birth control pills make you sick, IUD’s are notorious for complications and spermicides and diaphragms are too old school. Is the pull-out method really the last resort to a satisfying and safe sex life? Be sure to exhaust every option science has afforded us before ruling out new-age birth control entirely!
While Plan B isn’t a form of long-term birth control, it does wonders to ease an anxious mind when taken as directed after an irresponsible romp. Keep Plan B within reach to cut down on time spent traveling to and from the pharmacy. Remember, the sooner you take it, the better chance it has at working!