Scientists have developed the first male birth control shot for men that may be available in 2017.
Vasalgel, a non-hormonal contraceptive, has produced successful results through years of trials and testing. Last month, the Parsemus Foundation, a research-based organization that has been working on the shot, announced plans to start human trials next year. The shot is injected into the vas deferens, the tube in which sperm is sent to the ejaculatory ducts, and the gel blocks the sperm from escaping. Unlike a vasectomy, surgery will not be required. Parsemus Foundation studies have shown a drop in sperm count that will reduce the risk of pregnancy. Researchers are hoping that this will be a reversible and safer alternative to a vasectomy.
“That should totally be legal and widely practiced as much as the female birth control,” an anonymous female student said.
“I feel like the shot is a good alternative,” Sam Montebell, a sophomore nursing major, said. “But how much damage is it doing?”
The Parsemus Foundation has not revealed possible side effects from Vasalgel.
Like other contraceptives, this will not encourage unprotected sex. It will not protect against HIV or sexually transmitted diseases.
If the human trials for the contraceptive show success, Vasalgel will be another option to decrease the risk of unwanted pregnancy, create a possible safer alternative to vasectomies, and take pressure off women using the pill.
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