There are about 121 million unplanned pregnancies annually around the world, so it’s no question that we need reliable contraceptive methods. Historically, the burden of contraception has fallen on women, who are forced to deal with side effects, social stigma, and costs. Meanwhile, men have limited options when taking contraception into their own hands: the not-always-reliable condom and the often-feared vasectomy.

The creation of male contraception paints a future where couples have expanded choices and shared responsibilities in family planning. At YLabs, we believe that everyone, especially young people, should have the agency to make their own choices about their health and future.

In light of this, we partnered with leading femtech company LoveHoney to conduct a study on male contraception, covering both the new options being developed and perceptions from people in seven different countries.

On #WorldContraceptionDay, we thought we’d clue you into what we found…

The Journey So Far: Neglect and Missed Opportunities

Research into male contraceptives started a whopping six decades ago, but was overshadowed by the focus on options for females. The journey began with the creation of the first male contraceptive pill in the 1960s and an injectable form in 1996. However, minor side effects reported by men in the study led to a shift in focus to the opposite gender, leaving women to bear the brunt of contraceptive responsibilities and side effects. In 2016, a promising study on a male contraceptive injection was halted due to reports of acne and mood swings. The disparity in tolerance for side effects between sexes is clear.

Insights from the Ground: A Study by YLabs and LoveHoney

Our comprehensive study, conducted in partnership with LoveHoney, involved over 3,500 participants across France, the UK, the US, Canada, Spain, Germany, and Switzerland. We unveiled four key insights into people’s perceptions and preferences on novel male contraceptives:

1. Diversity in Choices: 

Participants welcomed the idea of more contraceptive options, which would allow partners to share responsibility and potentially deepen the trust in their relationships.

2. Willingness Amidst Concerns:

While 45% of men said they were willing to try new contraceptives, 41% were apprehensive about the potential side effects.

3. A Step Towards Gender Equity:

60% of participants viewed shared responsibility in contraception as a primary benefit, which would promote gender equity.

The Time is Now: A Call for Equal Focus

Right now, especially with the overturning of Roe v. Wade, is the time to shift our focus back to male contraceptive options. Several promising contraceptives, like the NES/T gel and RISUG, are undergoing clinical trials and are expected to be available soon. Sarah Mulindwa, a UK-based sexual health nurse, said it best when she asked:

Why are we not placing the same emphasis, funding, and focus on male contraception as we do for females?

These new developments in male contraception are not just about expanding choices. They are about rewriting norms and building a future where responsibilities and rights in reproductive health are shared equally among the sexes. The future of male contraception is not just a medical breakthrough; it’s a step toward a more inclusive and equitable world!

Interested in learning more about YLabs’ work to help youth lead the way? Check out our projects!