Modern birth control gives couples the ability to make informed decisions about the size and timing of their families. The main goal of contraception is to prevent male sperm from fertilizing a female egg, resulting in pregnancy. While family planning involves both partners, male contraception options are limited, leaving women to take on most of the responsibility.
Currently, there are only two male birth control options: condoms and vasectomy. Other methods, like withdrawal and fertility awareness, may be less reliable. However, there are several newer male birth control methods in varying stages of development, which are not yet widely available.
It’s estimated that around half of all pregnancies in Canada and the US are unplanned. There seems to be a growing need for additional contraception methods, and many men express a desire to share this responsibility equally with their female partners. Is it possible for men to do their part to avoid an unplanned pregnancy?
In this article, we’re going to discuss male contraception options and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a permanent, surgical form of male birth control, also known as male sterilization. It works by cutting or tying off the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm), preventing fertilization. Vasectomy is considered about 99% effective at preventing an unplanned pregnancy. Although it can usually be reversed, this is not a guarantee. Couples should be sure about their family planning goals before opting for a vasectomy as birth control.
There is also an option for a No-Scalpel Vasectomy, which is less invasive than the traditional method. This technique reduces the risk of complications and has a shorter recovery time.
Pros
- An effective, permanent form of male birth control for those who don’t want or are finished having children.
- Cost-effective and minimally invasive (especially compared to tubal ligation, the female surgical procedure for permanent birth control).
Cons
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Some risk is associated with all medical procedures, the most common being infection.
- You may experience some pain, bleeding, or swelling after the procedure.
- Takes a few months to be fully effective. In the meantime, you will have to rely on an alternative form of birth control.
- Male infertility can be an issue in some cases. Sperm retrieval may be necessary if the procedure fails or if a man later changes his mind about having children.
Condoms
Beyond vasectomy, condoms are currently the only reliable form of birth control for men. Most condoms are made from latex, which creates a barrier that catches sperm during ejaculation when placed over the penis before sexual intercourse. When used correctly, condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. They must be used consistently to be effective.
Pros
- Widely available and easily accessible. Condoms are available for purchase over the counter in most drugstores and supermarkets.
- The only type of birth control that protects against STIs.
- Non-hormonal, with limited side effects.
Cons
- Requires consistency and must be used every time to be effective.
- Some couples find condoms interrupt or reduce spontaneity.
- Failure to use condoms correctly can result in slippage, breakage, or tearing, increasing the chances of an unplanned pregnancy and reducing STI protection.
- It could be an issue if either partner has a latex allergy. Some other material options are available.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal, or “pulling out”, means removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation occurs, reducing the chances of sperm reaching and fertilizing a female egg. This method of birth control can be difficult to time correctly and is not considered a reliable form of birth control. It’s estimated that 22% of couples who use this method will become pregnant.
Fertility Awareness
The Fertility Awareness Method (FAM), also known as natural family planning or the rhythm method, involves tracking and monitoring a female’s menstrual cycle to determine when she is most likely fertile and therefore capable of getting pregnant. This “fertile window” typically includes the five days leading up to ovulation, the day of ovulation, and the day after ovulation. During this time, couples can choose to abstain from intercourse or use alternative forms of birth control, such as condoms. Various methods can be used to help pinpoint the day of ovulation, including:
- Measuring the basal body temperature (BBT) each morning (a rise in BBT indicates ovulation has occurred)
- Monitoring the consistency and texture of cervical mucus (thin, clear, and stretchy cervical mucus resembling a raw egg yolk indicates that ovulation has occurred)
- Tracking the length of a typical menstrual cycle and predicting the fertile period based on the average length
The effectiveness of the fertility awareness method varies greatly and has a high rate of human error. It is more effective if a female partner has regular menstrual cycles and correctly tracks her cycle. Unfortunately, a male partner cannot practice this method alone, but can help support his female partner by learning more about the approach and by using other methods of birth control during the fertile window.
Hormonal Birth Control
Currently, there are no forms of hormonal birth control for men; however, research is underway to develop other methods, including pills, gels, or injections. Some of these methods are currently in clinical trials, while others are still in early stages of development.
Men considering any contraceptive method should consult with a healthcare professional or family planning service to discuss their options and make an informed decision. Men’s Health Clinic in Manitoba can help make these options easier to understand as you navigate this journey.
