Male birth control — yes it exists!

This week, we're delving into a topic that's often overlooked but crucial for achieving true reproductive equality: male birth control.

In the last 90 years or so, the responsibility of taking contraception and preventing pregnancy has mostly fallen on women. However, the landscape is shifting, and conversations around male birth control are gaining momentum. This shift is not only a step towards gender equality but also empowers couples to share the responsibility of family planning more equitably.

What’s on the horizon? 

Male birth control is still largely in the research stage, but the goal is to temporarily suppress sperm production or delivery by altering hormone levels or creating physical barriers. There are currently gels, foams, and pills in clinical trials, and we’ve summarized a few to show you what’s (hopefully) coming soon!

NES/T Gel

NES/T was the first male contraception to pass the first phase of clinical trials and it is currently in Phase 3. This contraceptive method contains both a progestin, called Nestorone, and testosterone to decrease sperm production without reducing sex drive. Fun fact - Nestorone is already in use in some female contraceptive vaginal rings! It is administered via a gel that men apply topically to their shoulders daily. 

It’s reversible right?

Yes! Fertility (in this case, sperm counts) should come back after a couple months of discontinued use. There have actually been couples enrolled in the clinical trials for NES/T that have chosen to conceive, and the research supports that their fertility rates are not different to that of the general population. 

ADAM

ADAM is a new long-acting non-hormonal contraceptive method that is currently in Phase 1 clinical trials in Australia where the enrolled men will be followed for several years to test its efficacy at reducing sperm count. It consists of a hydrogel injection into the vas deferens, the tube that transports sperm from the testicles to the seminal vesicles, effectively blocking sperm from being ejaculated. The hope is that the method will be effective for two years, requiring the procedure to be redone at those intervals, similar to the IUD.

Where do I “Add to cart”?

For NES/T, early results are promising (did we mention it may be more effective than the pill?), but you won’t be seeing this on shelves anytime soon. Completing Phase 3 of clinical trials may take up to 5 years. Similarly, ADAM is in very early stages but could also be a promising method if proven effective and safe. Once these trials are completed and approved, they will be evaluated to come to market. So keep your eyes and ears open because they will certainly change the game. 

What about birth control pills?

It’s true, male contraceptive pills are being researched, but most of the options are still in animal study trials. So don’t hold your breath – you and your partner will have to wait quite a long time to take morning pills together. 

Okay…what if I need a solution now?

While we all eagerly wait for more options, let’s review what’s currently on the market! 

1. Condoms: Old faithful! Condoms are considered a “barrier method” and physically block sperm from reaching the egg, as long as the condom remains intact. They also are the only male birth control method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections.

2. Vasectomy: One of the most effective methods, especially for those wanting permanent birth control. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, preventing sperm from reaching the semen. After this, he will be shooting blanks!

3. Spermicide: Even though spermicide still requires insertion into the vagina, we are including it in our list since it is a handy non-hormonal method related to sperm! Spermicide contains a chemical compound that damages sperm, making it much more difficult for them to reach an egg. It can be administered as a foam, jelly, gel, or pill-to-cream suppository and is placed in the vagina. For best pregnancy prevention, it should be used alongside a barrier method, or other form of birth control. Sometimes you may even see spermicide-lined condoms — double whammy!

The future looks bright! 

Until some of the new methods become accessible, these non-hormonal birth control options are a great way for male partners to help shoulder the contraceptive burden. As we continue to advocate for reproductive rights and gender equality, let's embrace the evolution of male birth control as a positive step forward. 

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*The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or any other qualified healthcare provider with questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.