Male contraception--quo vadis?

Abstract

Recent developments in the regulation of fertility have taken place mainly within female contraception. New hormones and forms of their application are being regularly introduced. The concept of male hormonal contraception is decades old. However, until very recently, little effort has been spent trying to develop this new form of contraception for the market. Condoms and vasectomy are widely used despite their shortcomings. This reflects the willingness of male partners to share the responsibility of contraception. Condoms offer good protection from sexually transmitted disease and will therefore not be fully replaced by other forms. However, development of reliable male hormonal contraception is important in offering more choice for men and couples when choosing long-term contraception, particularly in cases where female contraception presents significant side-effects or other problems.