Birth control methods are not limited to women. There are several contraceptive options available to men that are also effective in preventing pregnancy. Which birth control methods for men are most effective in preventing pregnancy? Check out the review in the following article.
A variety of male contraceptive options
Here are some of the most common male contraceptive methods:
Condoms
Condoms are the most widely used form of contraception. They work by preventing sperm from entering the female reproductive tract and also offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). When used correctly, condoms are about 98% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Spermicide
Spermicides are chemicals that kill sperm, preventing them from fertilizing an egg. They should be inserted into the vagina about 10–15 minutes before intercourse and left in place for at least 6 hours afterward.
Spermicides can be used without additional contraception and have a 70–80% effectiveness rate. Spermicides are typically combined with other contraceptives, such as condoms, to increase their protective effectiveness.
Interrupted copulation
Interrupted copulation, also known as coitus interruptus, is a method of contraception that involves removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation. This method uses no devices, but it is only about 78% effective.
This method demands precise timing and control, which can be challenging, especially for those inexperienced with sex. It also does not provide protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Vasectomy
A vasectomy involves cutting or sealing the sperm ducts to prevent sperm from entering the semen. This method is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and is considered a permanent form of contraception. However, it takes about three months to ensure that sperm is no longer present in the semen, so other contraceptives like condoms are recommended during this period.
Which male contraceptive method is best?
Based on its effectiveness in helping to prevent pregnancy, vasectomy is unquestionably the most effective birth control method. However, because this method involves cutting the sperm ducts, the process of restoring the cut ducts (vasectomy reversal) is not simple. As a result, vasectomy is not recommended for those who wish to have a baby.
The choice of a male contraceptive method should be based on personal preference and medical needs. Consulting with a doctor and discussing options with your partner can help you decide which method is safest and best suited to your situation.
If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- Sean Edbert Lim, MBBS
WebMD (2023). Male Birth Control Options. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/male-contraceptives
Zawn Villines and Stefano Lavarone (2022). What are the birth control options for men?. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/birth-control-for-men#how-does-it-work
Cleveland Clinic (2022). Spermicide. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22493-spermicide
Planned Parenthood. How effective are condoms?. Available from: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/condom/how-effective-are-condoms
Planned Parenthood. How effective is pulling out?. Available from: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/withdrawal-pull-out-method/how-effective-is-withdrawal-method-pulling-out
Better Health Channel. Contraception - vasectomy. Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/contraception-vasectomy
Mayo Clinic (2023). Vasectomy reversal. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vasectomy-reversal/about/pac-20384537