Why Isn't there a Birth Control Pill for Males?

Summary

This video discusses the limited options for male birth control compared to women, highlighting the challenges in developing hormonal methods. While condoms and vasectomies are currently available, research into hormonal alternatives has been hindered by side effects and slow development times. Non-hormonal methods, like an injectable gel that blocks sperm transport, are being explored, with clinical trials expected soon. The video emphasizes the need for more male contraceptive options to share reproductive responsibilities and suggests that men often rely on their partners for birth control. The future of male contraception looks promising but still faces hurdles.

Takeaways

• 😀 There are currently only two main birth control options for men: condoms and vasectomies.
• 😀 Research into hormonal birth control for men has faced challenges, including side effects like mood swings.
• 😀 The development of male contraceptives is hindered by the lengthy time required for hormonal effects to begin and cease.
• 😀 In clinical trials, hormonal methods failed to fully suppress sperm production in 5-10% of men, with unknown reasons for this variability.
• 😀 Historical injustices, such as the Puerto Rico pill trials, have led to stricter regulations for women's contraceptive testing compared to men's.
• 😀 Most current male contraceptives are administered through injections or implants, which may not appeal to many potential users.
• 😀 An oral hormonal contraceptive for men showed promise in a 2018 study, effectively suppressing hormone targets.
• 😀 A hormone gel for men is in Phase 2 clinical trials, with potential availability in the coming years.
• 😀 An injectable gel is being developed that blocks sperm transport without involving hormones, expected to begin trials soon.
• 😀 There is a significant need for more birth control options for men to promote shared reproductive responsibilities between partners.

Q & A

What are the current birth control options available for men?

Men currently have two primary birth control options: condoms and vasectomies.

Why is there a disparity in the number of contraceptive options for men compared to women?

The disparity arises from historical issues in the development of female contraceptives, regulatory practices, and a lack of research and investment in male contraceptive methods.

What challenges have researchers faced in developing hormonal birth control for men?

Researchers encountered challenges such as side effects like mood swings, injection-related pain, and the time required for hormonal contraceptives to take effect and to cease sperm production.

What side effects have been associated with male hormonal contraceptives?

Reported side effects for male hormonal contraceptives include mood swings and injection-related pain, similar to some female contraceptive methods.

How long does it take for hormonal contraceptives to become effective in men?

It can take a few months for hormonal contraceptives to start working, and it also takes time to stop sperm production once the contraceptive is discontinued.

What alternative methods of birth control for men are currently being researched?

Research is ongoing into non-oral options, such as a hormone gel that is applied daily and an injectable gel that blocks sperm transport without using hormones.

What is the estimated completion date for the NIH Phase 2 clinical trial of the hormone gel?

The estimated completion date for the NIH Phase 2 clinical trial of the hormone gel is December 2024.

What is the function of the gel developed by the company Concholine?

The gel developed by Concholine is injected into the vas deferens to block sperm transport, potentially providing contraception for up to a year without hormonal intervention.

What is the condom failure rate mentioned in the transcript?

The estimated failure rate of condoms is around 13%.

How might the history of female contraceptive trials impact future male contraceptive options?

The unsavory history of female contraceptive trials highlights the need for rigorous regulation in the development of male contraceptives, which could affect how quickly and safely new options are introduced to the market.