Sharing contraception: WHO charts the path towards new male options

The document does not introduce a new product to the market. Instead, it establishes common criteria for researchers, manufacturers, and health authorities working on male pills, injections, gels, or implants. The WHO emphasizes safety, reversibility, effectiveness, and affordability.

This development also aims to alleviate a burden that is still largely shouldered by women. Side effects or health concerns are among the common reasons for discontinuing female contraception. Providing more choices for men would allow for a more equitable distribution of decision-making, without taking away individual control over reproductive health.

The profiles published by the WHO suggest a minimum effectiveness threshold of between 90% and 93% depending on the methods considered. However, the most advanced options are still in the testing phase. The Male Contraceptive Initiative estimates that the first products could take at least five more years before potentially reaching the market.

The demand does not appear to be limited to wealthy countries. A survey conducted in Ghana, Togo, Morocco, and Colombia found that more than three out of four couples expressed a willingness to try male contraception. Another study cited by the WHO, conducted in Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, indicated that 61% of the men surveyed showed interest.

Currently, the available methods for men remain primarily condoms and vasectomy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention remind us that condoms are the only contraceptive method that also helps reduce the risk of HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections.