Safety, Efficacy, and Reversibility of Novel Male Contraceptives for Improved Pregnancy Prevention

Unintended pregnancy is a global issue that can result from contraceptive failure or from a lack of contraceptive use. A literature search was conducted to explore novel methods of male contraceptives being developed for improved pregnancy prevention. Seven articles were selected, reporting on either oral contraceptive pills, transdermal gel, injectable hormonal, or bilateral intravas deferens polymer injection. The most common adverse events reported across all studies include changes in libido, mood, weight gain, acne, and headache. After reaching hormone and sperm concentration levels sufficient for pregnancy prevention, authors reported complete reversibility of contraceptive effects. Four studies described changes in various safety laboratory tests, including lipid profiles and complete blood counts. Though more research is needed, novel male contraceptives may be more effective than current methods for men in preventing unintended pregnancy