Contraception plays a crucial role in family planning and sexual health, and while much attention has historically focused on female contraceptive options, there is an increasing recognition of the importance of male contraception. In this article i will explore the various methods available to men, ranging from traditional approaches like condoms and withdrawal to more innovative options such as hormonal methods and surgical procedures. Understanding these methods empowers men to take an active role in contraceptive decisions, promoting shared responsibility in sexual health and family planning.

What is “contraception” ?

Contraception refers to the various methods and techniques used to prevent pregnancy during sexual intercourse. It allows individuals and couples to have control over their reproductive health and family planning.

Contraception can be temporary or permanent (e.g., vasectomy or tubal ligation), and it is essential for promoting reproductive autonomy, improving maternal and child health, and allowing for family planning according to personal circumstances.Formun Altı

Methods of contraception for men

Here’s an overview of various methods of contraception available for men:

Condoms: A barrier method made of latex or polyurethane that prevents sperm from entering the vagina.

• Advantages: Widely available, protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and easy to use.
  • Disadvantages: Some men may experience reduced sensitivity; potential for breakage or slippage.

Withdrawal Method (Pull-Out Method): The male partner withdraws the penis from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering.

• Advantages: No cost or devices required, and it doesn’t affect hormonal balance.
  • Disadvantages: Requires self-control and timing; pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm, leading to potential failure.

Vasectomy: A surgical procedure that involves cutting and sealing the vas deferens, preventing sperm from mixing with semen.

• Advantages: Highly effective (over 99% success rate), permanent solution, and low long-term costs.
  • Disadvantages: Considered permanent (though reversals are possible), requires surgery, and does not protect against STIs.

Hormonal Contraception: Emerging options include hormonal pills, injections, or gels that reduce sperm production.

• Advantages: Can provide a reliable form of contraception and may also offer health benefits.
  • Disadvantages: Side effects can include weight gain, mood changes, and require medical supervision.

Sperm Retrieval and Storage: Techniques like sperm aspiration for use in assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

• Advantages: Useful for men with fertility concerns who want to conceive later.
  • Disadvantages: More complex and costly; does not prevent pregnancy.

Male Contraceptive Gel (Experimental): A topical gel that inhibits sperm production when applied to the skin.

• Advantages: Non-invasive and potentially reversible.
  • Disadvantages: Still under research and not widely available.

Coitus Interruptus: Similar to the withdrawal method but may involve less focus on timing.

• Advantages: No cost or devices needed.
  • Disadvantages: High failure rate due to difficulty in timing and potential for pre-ejaculatory fluid.

Which method is safe?

When considering safety in male contraception, it’s essential to evaluate both the effectiveness of the method and its potential health risks. Here’s a look at the safer options for male contraception:

Condoms

• Safety: Generally considered very safe. They provide a physical barrier that prevents both pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Effectiveness: Approximately 85% effective with typical use (up to 98% with perfect use).

Vasectomy

• Safety: A highly effective and safe surgical option. It has a low risk of complications when performed by a qualified surgeon.
  • Effectiveness: Over 99% effective. It is considered a permanent method, so it’s best for those who are sure they do not want future children.

Withdrawal Method (Pull-Out Method)

• Safety: While it does not involve physical devices or hormonal changes, it requires significant self-control and awareness.
  • Effectiveness: About 78% effective with typical use, but its reliability can vary widely.

Hormonal Contraception (Experimental)

• Safety: Emerging hormonal methods for men are being studied and have shown promise. These may be safe, but long-term effects and risks are still being evaluated.
  • Effectiveness: Expected to be high once available and fully studied.

Considerations for safety

There are certain factors to consider for the reliability of contraception methods in men

• Condoms are the only method that provides protection against STIs, making them the safest choice for those concerned about sexually transmitted infections.
• Vasectomy is a safe and effective method for those who do not wish to have children in the future but should be considered permanent.
• The withdrawal method carries a higher risk of failure due to potential sperm in pre-ejaculatory fluid, making it less reliable.
• Experimental methods like hormonal contraception should be approached with caution until they are fully evaluated for long-term safety and side effects.

Conclusion: Condoms and vasectomy are currently the safest and most reliable methods of contraception for men. Individuals should consult healthcare providers to discuss personal health, family planning goals, and the most suitable contraceptive methods. Regular check-ups and open communication with partners are essential for ensuring safe and effective contraceptive practices.

Summary

Men have several contraceptive options to help manage family planning and sexual health. The most common methods include condoms, which offer effective pregnancy prevention and protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The withdrawal method is a non-barrier approach that relies on timing but carries a higher risk of failure. Vasectomy is a surgical option providing a permanent solution, highly effective in preventing pregnancy. Emerging hormonal contraceptives for men are being researched and may offer additional reliable choices in the future. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and consultation with healthcare providers.

Prof . Dr Emin ÖZBEK

Urologist

Istanbul- TURKIYE