Birth control: Can preejaculation fluid cause pregnancy?

Yes. It’s called preejaculation fluid. It can have sperm in it. That means pregnancy can occur even when there isn’t full ejaculation inside the vagina.

Taking the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation, called withdrawal, is one of the oldest methods of birth control. It’s free and has no side effects. Still, withdrawal won’t always work. And it doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections.

To prevent pregnancy, pick another type of birth control. There are many. Ask a member of your health care team to help you choose one.