Could Your Husband Be On the "Pill"?

Birth control is almost always related to women, but what about their male counterparts? The only options that men have when it comes to controlling their fertility are nearly irreversible vasectomies and condoms which have gained the reputation of “killing the mood.” Researches announced their advancements that will one day produce male contraceptives which are effective and short-term at the "Future of Male Contraception" conference.

Among the researchers were those from the University of Pittsburgh. They claimed that they could administer contraception in monkeys using no hormones or shots. After receiving a compound, CDB-4022, the monkeys had no moving sperm. The monkeys fertility seemed to be revived within 16 weeks after the compound was taken. CDB-4022 can be taken in a pill form. Results of a survey done by the International Male Contraception Coalition were later revealed during the conference that 61% of the men surveyed stated that their first choice of contraception would be a nonhormonal drug.

Another development make known was about a drug that is currently used for something else. A selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) is presently being tested as a treatment for osteoporosis. It was discovered that this testosterone-like pill could be taken as a hormonal contraceptive for males. The Intra Vas device was also discussed at the convention. This mechanism is comprised of hollow silicone plugs about 1 mm wide and 2.5 cm long which blocks sperm at the vans deferens. These plugs can then be removed when the man wants to have children. Studies done on animals showed that if the device was used for short period, then fertility returned.

While women have many options of how they can control their fertility, men currently only have few alternatives to abstinence, but may see their prospects turn when new products are introduced in the future.

Male Contraception Information Project (2007, October 1). Contraception: Progress Brings Hope For New Methods For Men. ScienceDaily. Retrieved October 15, 2008, from http://www.sciencedaily.com¬ /releases/2007/09/070928092439.htm