A successful phase 2 trial for a male hormonal gel contraceptive has shown promising results, with 86% of participants achieving sperm suppression after just 12 weeks of applying the gel daily. This new contraceptive option combines testosterone and Nestorone in a gel form that acts quickly and requires less testosterone compared to past attempts. This hormonal gel is meant to prevent sperm production without affecting sexual function or causing side effects. Couples participating in the trial must be in committed, monogamous relationships and agree to use the gel as their only form of birth control.
Several nonhormonal male birth control options are also in development, including a pill that blocks a key receptor for male fertility and a gel injection into the vas deferens, similar to an IUD for women. Demand for new male contraception is growing, with surveys showing that men are willing to use new methods and interest increasing since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. The ability to reverse these contraceptives makes them appealing to couples looking for reliable birth control options without permanent solutions like vasectomies.
Despite promising trial results and increasing demand for male birth control options, the road to FDA approval for these contraceptives faces challenges due to lack of funding. Male contraceptive research is severely underfunded, and while the NIH and independent organizations are supporting trials, large pharmaceutical companies are not stepping in to fund further research. The cost of taking a drug through clinical trials and onto the market exceeds the available funding, making it difficult to move these new contraceptive options closer to market availability.
Researchers and advocates believe that a shift in perspective is needed to view male contraception as an integral part of women’s health, given that they both aim to prevent unintended pregnancies. While progress has been made in developing male birth control options like the hormonal gel and nonhormonal methods, the lack of investment and industry partnerships poses a significant challenge to bringing these contraceptives to market. Addressing the funding gap and recognizing the demand for male contraception is crucial to advancing these innovative birth control options and providing more choices for couples seeking reliable and reversible forms of contraception.
