The existing male contraceptive methods are vasectomy and condoms, which prevent sperm from reaching the egg and pregnancy occurs. The condom is the contraceptive method most used by men, since it is practical, reversible, effective and even provides protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
Vasectomy is a type of male contraceptive that has a definitive effect, since the doctor cuts the channel that leads sperm from the testicles to the penis, this procedure being performed more by men who no longer intend to have children.
In recent years, several researches have been developed with the objective of creating a reversible contraceptive that is similar to the female contraceptive, giving men more options. Among the main male contraceptives that are under development and in research are the gel contraceptive and the male pill, which work by reducing sperm production and motility, but which have reversible effects.
1. Condom
The condom, also called a condom, is the contraceptive method most used by both men and women, because in addition to preventing the occurrence of pregnancy, it protects against diseases that can be transmitted sexually.
In addition, it does not promote any hormonal changes or in the sperm production and release process, being completely reversible.
Watch the following video and learn more about condoms and how to use them correctly:
2. Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a male contraceptive method that consists of cutting the canal that connects the testicle to the penis and that conducts sperm, preventing the release of sperm during ejaculation and, consequently, pregnancy.
This method of contraception is usually performed on men who do not wish to have more children and is done quickly in the doctor's office. See how the vasectomy is done and how it works.
3. Contraceptive gel
The gel contraceptive, known as Vasalgel, must be applied to the vas deferens, which are the channels that lead the sperm from the testicles to the penis, and works by blocking the passage of sperm for up to 10 years. However, it is possible to reverse this situation by applying an injection of sodium bicarbonate at the site, which is rarely possible in vasectomy.
Vasalgel has no contraindications, nor does it modify the production of male hormones, however it is still in the testing phase.
4. Male contraceptive pill
The male contraceptive pill, also called DMAU, is a pill made up of derivatives of female hormones that works by decreasing the amount of testosterone, which decreases sperm production and motility, temporarily interfering with man's fertility.
Although it has already been tested in some men, the male contraceptive pill is not yet available due to side effects reported by men, such as decreased libido, mood swings and increased acne, for example.
5. Contraceptive injection
Recently, an injection called RISUG was developed, composed of substances called polymers and it is applied to the channel through which sperm pass, under local anesthesia. This injection blocks ejaculation, preventing the release of sperm during sex, and the action of the drug lasts between 10 to 15 years.
If the man wants to reverse the injection, another drug that releases sperm can be applied. However, although the male contraceptive injection has already been tested, it is still in the process of being approved by government institutions responsible for releasing new drugs.
