Why Is There Still No "Pill for Men"? Current Developments in Hormonal and Nonhormonal Medical Contraception for Men

Eur Urol Focus. 2023 Jan;9(1):25-27. doi: 10.1016/j.euf.2022.11.012. Epub 2022 Nov 25.

Abstract

Although hormonal contraception has been available to women for more than 60 yr, the only contraceptive options for men are still either a condom or vasectomy. This review presents current developments in hormonal and nonhormonal medical contraception for men, and perspectives for the future. Although a lot of scientific effort has been spent in identifying hormonal male contraception options in the past 40 yr, insufficient effectiveness and possible side effects mean that no official approvals have been obtained to date. Against this background, nonhormonal options for male contraception are the new field of interest. PATIENT SUMMARY: This review describes attempts to develop a reliable medical contraceptive for men, explains why there is still no "pill for men", and highlights how the future of medical contraception for men might look. For many reasons, there is an urgent need for male contraception in Europe and around the world.

Keywords: Hormonal and nonhormonal medical therapy; Male contraception; Male reproduction; Pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Condoms
  • Contraception*
  • Contraceptive Agents*
  • Europe
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male

Substances

  • Contraceptive Agents