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The most used male contraceptive methods are vasectomy and condoms, which prevent sperm from reaching the egg and generating a pregnancy.
Among these methods, the condom is the most popular method, since it is more practical, reversible, effective and still provides protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Vasectomy, on the other hand, is a type of contraceptive with definitive effect, being a procedure performed by men who no longer intend to have children.
In recent years, several researches have been developed with the objective of creating a reversible contraceptive that is similar to the female contraceptive, giving men more options. Among the main male contraceptives that are in development, the gel contraceptive, the male pill and the contraceptive injection seem to have the best results.
1. Condom
The condom, also called a condom, is the contraceptive method most used by both men and women, because in addition to preventing the occurrence of pregnancy, it protects against diseases that can be transmitted sexually.
In addition, it does not promote any hormonal changes or in the sperm production and release process, being completely reversible.
See the 5 most common mistakes when putting the condom on and how to put it correctly.
2. Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a male contraceptive method that consists of cutting the canal that connects the testicle to the penis and that conducts sperm, preventing the release of sperm during ejaculation and, consequently, pregnancy.
This method of contraception is usually performed on men who do not wish to have more children and is done quickly in the doctor's office. See how the vasectomy is done and how it works.
3. Contraceptive gel
The gel contraceptive, known as Vasalgel, must be applied to the vas deferens, which are the channels that lead the sperm from the testicles to the penis, and works by blocking the passage of sperm for up to 10 years. However, it is possible to reverse this situation by applying an injection of sodium bicarbonate at the site, which is rarely possible in vasectomy.
Vasalgel has no contraindications, nor does it modify the production of male hormones, however it is still in the testing phase.
4. Male contraceptive pill
The male contraceptive pill, also called DMAU, is a pill made up of derivatives of female hormones that works by decreasing the amount of testosterone, which decreases sperm production and motility, temporarily interfering with man's fertility.
Although it has already been tested in some men, the male birth control pill is not yet available due to side effects reported by men, such as decreased libido, mood swings and increased acne, for example.
5. Contraceptive injection
Recently, an injection called RISUG was developed, composed of substances called polymers and it is applied in the channel through which the sperm pass, under local anesthesia. This injection blocks ejaculation, preventing the release of sperm during sex, and the action of the drug lasts between 10 to 15 years.
If the man wants to reverse the injection, another drug that releases sperm can be applied. However, although the male contraceptive injection has already been tested, it is still in the process of being approved by government institutions responsible for releasing new drugs.