With what seems like an ever growing catalogue of contraceptive options for women you can pick and choose your way through the list until you find one that’s just right for you. But what about men?
It seems that throughout developing these extremely useful and varied contraceptives for women, medics have forgotten that it takes two to tango. Granted females are the ones who fall pregnant, but that doesn’t mean that they should be solely responsible for the use of contraceptives. Scientists in Israel agree, and have created a brand new oral pill for men. The pill has no side effects, unlike those for women, and only needs to be taken once every three months.
The new pill works by simply removing a protein from the sperm which is vital in the fertilisation process. Sperm is still able to reach an egg, it just can’t fertilise it. Although human trials of the male contraceptive pill aren’t due to being until next year, the scientists behind the development say it could be available in as little as three years time.
At the same time this new male contraceptive is being developed, so is yet another alternative for females. A contraceptive gel. Yes, you heard right, a gel. The clear gel which is applied to the stomach, shoulders, arms, or thighs has none of the side effects usually associated with the pill and is safe for women who are breastfeeding. It is easily absorbed through the skin and only a small amount is needed in order to be effective. The gel works by delivering a dose of hormones which changes the way the body usually produces them.
Natika Halil, Director of Information at the NHS Family Planning Association said: “Any contraceptive system that increases the choice of methods available to women and helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies is welcome. Our research shows that there are approximately two million women using a contraceptive method that they are unhappy with, so they will benefit from improved choices and options. This product won’t suit everyone and will only be for women comfortable spraying it on their skin and having their contraceptive cover that way.”
Rachael Patan
tagged in Sexual Health