Wednesday, March 28, 2012

the male contraceptive

Discussion today got me thinking about the differences between male and female expectations and especially those involving birth control. We all know about the various birth control pills out there for women but I have not heard of much for men other than the condom. I started to research what was actually out there and being tested and there is a new male contraceptive called RISUG. Reversible Inhibition of Sperm under Guidance or RISUG is an injectable compound that partially blocks the vasa deferentia and provides contraception for up to 10 years per dose. As far as testing has shown it is effective immediately, has few side effects and has proven to be reversible. Primate studies show that this is also readily reversible but it has not been tested in humans yet.

I think this is really fascinating and it is a way to control getting pregnant with out having the sole responsibility be on the female. However I do wonder how many men will be willing to get this compound. It will be interesting to see what happens in the future as the research becomes more developed

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