Implant, pill, or male IUD?
Methods of hormonal contraception for men appeared relatively recently and have not been studied as well as methods for females. The decision to use one of them should be done in consultation with a doctor and a mandatory checkup. Hormonal contraceptives for men may not be used if there is a history of cardiovascular and endocrine system diseases. Additionally, blood tests will be required to determine the current hormonal status.
Contraceptive pills for men contain high doses of substances that inhibit sperm production and lead to what is called chemical infertility. The mechanism is similar to female oral contraception: temporarily, during the period of taking the drug, sperm stop forming. When the person stops taking it, the quality of sperm will return to its original level within 2–3 months. However, some studies suggest that fertility recovery does not happen for everyone, or is delayed for a long time. Additionally, male birth control has not been studied as much as female birth control pills.
Subcutaneous implants eliminate the need to remember to take the drug regularly. An ampoule containing hormones is implanted under the skin, which is released into the bloodstream gradually, maintaining the contraceptive effect. The ampoule can stand for several weeks or several months. The method is considered relatively safe, with less than 5 % of patients experiencing headaches or muscle weakness. In the event of side effects, the ampoule can be easily removed and the body normalizes in a few days.
Hormonal injections, which may be required once a month or less frequently depending on the concentration of the active ingredient, are also suitable for men who are not ready to take pills regularly.
The male hormonal IUD is a very new invention that recently appeared in the United States. The IUD is inserted into the urethra. Its size is so tiny that it does not cause any discomfort, but it releases hormones that neutralize sperm. Only a doctor can install and remove the coil. The advantage is that when the IUD is removed, the ability to fertilize is restored instantly. However, many people are put off by the idea of having to insert a foreign body into the penis and the possible trauma to the spermatic passages.
The classic method
Vasoresection is a microsurgery that takes about 15 minutes. The seminal cords are squeezed, which prevents sperm from flowing outward. The recovery period usually takes about a day and is associated with a slight swelling at the intervention site. Interestingly, vasoresection is indicated for men with prostate disease, as it alleviates the condition and makes the therapy more effective. Vasoresection is reversible within 10–15 years after the procedure, as the clamps can be removed and the childbearing function will be restored. Keep in mind that recovery is faster in younger men, but maybe more difficult as they age.
A vasectomy is used if the decision to have no more children is irrevocably made. Unlike vasoresection, a vasectomy cuts the spermatic cord and places it so that it does not coalesce. It is used relatively rarely, but if an accidental conception is still possible with a vasoresection, if the clamps have shifted or if the operation was not performed very professionally, then vasectomy is a 100 % guarantee of the result.
