What Male Birth Control Options Exist & What’s Coming Next?

Male contraception is gaining more attention as couples look for shared responsibility in preventing pregnancy.

While current male birth control options are limited, there are still effective choices available today — and exciting developments on the horizon.

What Is Male Birth Control & How Does It Work?

Male birth control refers to the methods men can use to prevent pregnancy. These methods either stop sperm from reaching the egg or reduce or block sperm production altogether, depending on how they work.

In practice, male contraception works in two main ways:

• Barrier methods (e.g., condoms): They create a physical barrier that prevents sperm from entering the partner’s body during sex.
• Medical or surgical methods (e.g., vasectomy): They stop sperm from being released or transported in semen.

What Male Birth Control Options Are Available Today?

1. Condoms (Most Common Option)

Condoms are the most widely used male contraceptive. They act as a barrier, preventing sperm from entering the vagina during sex.

When used correctly every time, they are highly effective (up to 98%) and remain the only method that also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Condoms come in different sizes, materials and types, which can improve comfort and reduce the risk of breakage. It’s important to check the expiry date and use them with suitable lubricants where needed.

Best for: Short-term, non-hormonal contraception with STI protection

Read also: What Are The Best Condoms & Lubricants For Safety & Comfort?

2. Vasectomy

A vasectomy (also known as “male sterilisation”) is a minor surgical procedure that blocks the tubes carrying sperm, preventing it from being released.

It’s usually carried out under local anaesthetic, and most people recover quickly, often returning to normal activities within a few days.

It’s important to know that a vasectomy does not work immediately; that’s why alternative contraception is needed until follow-up tests confirm no sperm is present.

The procedure does not affect testosterone levels, sex drive or performance, which are common concerns for many men.

Best for: Long-term or permanent contraception

3. Spermicides

Spermicides are chemical products that reduce sperm movement and prevent fertilisation. They are often used alongside other methods.

They come in different forms, such as gels, creams or foams, and are typically applied shortly before sex.

Some people may experience mild irritation, so it’s important to follow instructions carefully for safe and effective use.

Best for: Additional protection alongside barrier methods

In the UK, standalone spermicide products are not commonly available. Instead, spermicidal agents are usually found in combination products, such as certain condoms or contraceptive gels used alongside barrier methods.

Additional Ways to Reduce the Risk of Pregnancy

While not considered primary contraception methods, some approaches can still help reduce the risk of pregnancy. However, they are generally less reliable and depend heavily on correct timing, awareness and self-control.

Withdrawal (Pulling Out)

The withdrawal method involves removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the reproductive tract. While simple in theory, it requires precise timing and strong control, which makes it less reliable in practice.

One important limitation is that pre-ejaculate fluid may still contain small amounts of sperm, meaning pregnancy is still possible even if withdrawal is done correctly.

Because of this, it’s often recommended to use this method alongside another form of contraception rather than relying on it alone.

Outercourse (Non-Penetrative Sex)

Outercourse refers to sexual activity that does not involve vaginal penetration. This may include touching, stimulation or other forms of intimacy that avoid direct sperm exposure.

When practised correctly, outercourse can be an effective way to avoid pregnancy.

However, it’s important to be aware that sperm can still be transferred through contact, particularly if ejaculation occurs near the genital area. Clear communication and awareness between partners are key to reducing any risk.

Read also: Talking About Contraception With Your Partner: What to Say & How.

Abstinence

Abstinence means not having vaginal intercourse. It is the only method that is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy, as there is no possibility of sperm reaching an egg.

For some individuals or couples, abstinence may be a temporary or situational choice rather than a long-term one.

While highly effective, it may not be practical or suitable for everyone, which is why many people choose to combine or transition to other contraceptive methods over time.

Promising New Birth Control Methods: What’s in Development?

Among all methods currently in development, the male contraceptive pill is widely considered the most promising future option.

Researchers are working on both hormonal and non-hormonal pills designed to reduce sperm production or block sperm function, making fertilisation unlikely.

• Hormonal versions (DMAU): They aim to suppress testosterone and other hormones involved in sperm production. While effective in theory, they may come with side effects such as mood changes or altered libido, which researchers are still evaluating.
• Non-hormonal versions (YCT-529): They target specific proteins or biological pathways involved in sperm development, without affecting overall hormone levels. Early findings suggest they may offer a safer and more targeted alternative, although they are still in early-stage trials.

Beyond the male contraceptive pill, several other methods are also being explored. According to this NIH review on male contraception research, these include:

• Hormonal gels (e.g., testosterone + progestin combinations) that reduce sperm production
• Male contraceptive injections offering longer-lasting hormonal suppression
• Non-hormonal compounds that reduce sperm motility or block key biological pathways
• Reversible vas deferens blockage methods (e.g., gel-based “plugs”) that prevent sperm transport

While many of these approaches show promise, most are still in early-stage or clinical research, meaning further studies are needed before they become widely available.

Male Birth Control — Conclusion

Male birth control options are currently limited, but they are evolving. While condoms and vasectomy remain the main choices today, ongoing research could soon expand the options available.

If you're exploring contraception as a couple, you can browse a full range of condoms and contraceptives to find a solution that works for you!