Doctors bust myths around precum and pregnancy risk.
As awareness around family planning increases, experts warn of misinformation circulating about certain contraceptive techniques. One such false notion is that precum or pre-ejaculate fluid cannot cause pregnancy.
Dr Manjula Anagani of CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad, explains though precum itself may not contain sperm, it can pick up leftover remnants from previous ejaculations through the urethra. Relying solely on the ‘withdrawal method’ still holds around a 22% chance of unintended pregnancy yearly, as per Planned Parenthood studies.
Reiterating the risks, Dr Priyanka Suhag of Delhi’s CK Birla Hospital stresses full penetration is also unnecessary for conception. Sperm may traverse through the precum and potentially reach the vagina without complete intercourse.
Both doctors aim to bust the myth by emphasizing any form of unprotected sex poses pregnancy threats. While natural family planning requires discipline, modern, medically approved techniques offer greater surety given biological factors.
As discussions around reproductive health and choices evolve in society, factual awareness through medical advice assumes importance. Doctors hope to dispel doubts and provide evidence-based knowledge for informed decision-making around contraception and family goals.
