Mens Health & Fitness

How Does Male Birth Control Work?

This is a topic of discussion that has been on the table for years; legit… years. As of lately we are one step closer to male birth control. However, it’s not in the form of a pill, it’s a gel? The US National Institute of Health and the Population Council (who knew that was a thing) have been recruiting couples to do a year-long trial on the gel. The male has to apply a hormonal gel to both their shoulders, twice a day. These couples will be using the gel as their only method of birth control. Now you’re probably thinking how can male birth control be a gel? How does male birth control work? Well, here’s your low down.

How Does Male Birth Control Work?

The gel is supposed to deliver a combination of testosterone and progestin. Although, I am still confused on why they are put on your shoulders rather than a region that produces sperm. However, during the pilot trial, the gel was proven to have reduced sperm counts while maintaining healthy testosterone levels. There was an attempt in 2016 of examining a male birth control injection by the World Health Organization. However it was cut short when patients reported side effects.

As a form of male birth control, the shot was given once every two months which is a pretty incredible gig. It was proven to be 96% effective. However 20 of the 320 patients dropped out citing they felt pain and erectile dysfunction. However, the most absurd reason for the participant halt were complaints of depression, mood swings and acne. Sorry dudes but what do you think we deal with regularly?

The male birth control gel is expected to have less severe side effects than the injection since the hormones will be released more consistently. The most common side effect of the male birth control gel is acne which is pretty solid considering. However, during the pilot trial volunteers reported mood swings, headaches, increased appetite and insomnia; all known side effects for female birth control pills.

See Also

Currently, the only methods of male birth control are a vasectomy and condoms. Stupidly people have referenced the “pullout” method which we all know that’s not truly effective or considered a form of male birth control. Stay safe!

Let us know what you think about how does male birth control work in the comments below! Here are some tips on how to have epic shower sex.
Featured Image Source: weheartit.com
leahsoboroff

Hi, I'm Leah, a Los Angelino living in Boston! I'm a grad from Northeastern University with a Bachelors from the College of Arts, Media and Design. I'm obsessed with going on adventures, photography, writing, being a Taurus and finding hidden gem restaurants, musicians and places to travel. I live for tacos and you can't keep me away from a cute farm stand. I also live for Instagram ... oops!

Recent Posts

10 Life Lessons Every Mom Needs to Teach Her Daughter Before College

Every mother eventually needs to send her daughter out into the college world . Keep reading for some advice to give…

11 hours ago

“What Skin Type Am I?”

Ever walk into a Sephora or any beauty store, and when they ask for your skin type, you just blank…

14 hours ago

10 Travel Tips You Should ALWAYS Follow

As a young woman who has an extreme wanderlust, I have learned quite a few travel tips during my adventures that just…

17 hours ago

40 Life Hacks You Wish You Knew Sooner

Who doesn't love and need life hacks? From study hacks to improve your grades, to kitchen hacks that will have you…

20 hours ago

5 Tips To Find The Cheapest Flight Possible

1. Timing is everything. When it comes to booking flights, deals can literally change by the second. The price of…

1 day ago

20 Amazon Items Under $20 You Can Prime In Time For School

Still haven't stocked up on all those college essentials yet? No worries - Amazon prime is here for you. And…

1 day ago