The male contraceptive pill is now one step closer to becoming a reality.
The medication was recently deemed “safe” by scientists following a recent successful trial conducted by the University of Washington.
The pill, which would be taken daily by men, suppresses the hormones that aid in the production of sperm in the testes.
The 40 participants who took place in the study experienced decreased levels of these hormones suggesting that their sperm counts had also been reduced.
The Independent reports that the study deemed the contraception “safe” and that it caused minimal side effects in patients.
Some of the men experienced mild side effects including headaches, acne, and tiredness, while some reported a slightly decreased sex drive and mild erectile dysfunction.
Despite this, none of the men stopped taking the pill during the trial period.
The study’s co-senior investigator, Stephanie Page, said that the pill would finally give men another method of contraception.
“The goal is to expand contraceptive options and create a menu of choices for men like we have for women,” she said.
“We are neglecting a major potential user population with the limited options currently available to men.”
Further research will determine whether the sperm count reduction is enough to reduce the chances of pregnancy a sufficient amount.
It is believed that the pill would need between 60 and 90 days to take effect and successfully reduce hormones in the male body.
Scientists are adamant, however, that the male pill may not be available on the market for about a decade or so.
But still, continued tests and increased demand for more options mean that the male pill will most likely become a reality at some point – even if it is later rather than sooner.
