A few days ago, researchers at the University of Minnesota announced extremely optimistic results regarding the development of a contraceptive method for men. Through experiments in male mice, it was shown that administration of a protein leads to much lower sperm production and limited fertility. Also, four to six weeks after they stopped taking the substance, they could re-fertilize normally.
This is a very encouraging development, but we must deal with it with some caution. Since the 1970s, scientists have been trying to develop a method of contraception for men, with many studies coming close without achieving their goal. Hence many expect that in human experiments, the project will fail.
Speaking to the New York Times, doctors and scientists have voiced their doubts, with a specific expert stating that the landscape is always cloudy before toxicological tests are performed. But others say the research could be the basis for other drugs.
In any case, although clinical trials in humans may begin as early as this year, launching such a contraceptive method on the market could take years.
At the same time, however, many more relevant researches are “running”. Indicatively, the National Institutes of Health funds research for a contraceptive hormonal method in the form of a gel, which the man will rub on his shoulders and upper arms daily. Also, a biotechnology company in Virginia, USA, Contraline, is expected to start clinical trials for a substance that is given intravenously. In addition, researchers in India are considering a non-surgical vasectomy.
Currently, there are only two contraceptives available for men: vasectomy and condoms.
Why is there no contraceptive pill for men?
In the 1990s, the WHO conducted research into changes in testosterone levels as a possible method of contraception. It has been shown that high levels of the hormone needed to reduce fertility can cause weight gain, discomfort, acne and sudden mood swings, just as with birth control pills for women.
However, some research has shown that taking the pill leads to the same symptoms, but to a much greater extent, sometimes causing depression, pain and severe acne.
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