Scientists are beginning tests to see if ultrasound can be used as a reversible contraceptive for men.
Based on early work, University of North Carolina experts believe a blast of ultrasound to the testes can safely stop sperm production for six months.
With a grant of $100,000 from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation they will push ahead with more clinical trials.
The researchers ultimately hope it could offer a new birth control option to couples throughout the world.
Lead researcher Dr James Tsuruta said: "We think this could provide men with up to six months of reliable, low-cost, non-hormonal contraception from a single round of treatment.
"Our long-term goal is to use ultrasound from therapeutic instruments that are commonly found in sports medicine or physical therapy clinics as an inexpensive, long-term, reversible male contraceptive suitable for use in developing to first world countries."
Once the testis has stopped producing sperm and all "sperm reserves" have been depleted, explain the researchers, the man will be temporarily infertile.
Their Grand Challenges Exploration Grant project aims at fine-tuning this technique for maximum effect and safety.
well its about damn time. holler at bill and melinda gates for funding such important, progressive research.
though i can't help but wonder if it would be just as/more difficult to get covered by your insurance company as hormonal birth control is for women.
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While I'm all for male birth control, I would bet that a whole lot of men would skip this procedure because, "Dude, I don't wanna get my balls zapped." I hope they a prepared for a massive education campaign as well. Men are already fairly ignorant of birth control (as we've seen), so clamping down on "that shit makes your nuts purple" rumors would be a good idea.
ReplyDeleteIf it proves to be safe and effective, awesome. If the religious right suddenly makes testicles a sacred part of the human body, I will scream. And because it is dealing with a form of birth control, it will probably be more difficult for your heath insurance to cover it. Wow, I'm pessimistic...
Dunno Grumble, I would take this over having a vasectomy... I would just concerned about any long term side effects.
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