by Nina Goosen
Kyla Raoult, a MSc Polymer Science graduate from Stellenbosch University, has made progress towards a non-hormonal, reversible male contraceptive. Raoult developed a hydrogel that, when placed up the vas deferens, would filter sperm out of seminal fluid during ejaculation. A product, “Plan A”, is currently being developed by NEXT Life Sciences. This technology has
been a long time coming, and Raoult’s work represents a big step towards completion.
With the possibility of it entering the market in the near future, it’s important to examine the challenges it might face. With fewer contraception options for men, and a culture that often puts
the burden of preventing pregnancy on women, what barriers would this new contraceptive have to overcome to be widely used?
Compared to women’s wide options for birth control, such as the pill, female condoms, and Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), men have significantly fewer options. Only the external condom and vasectomies see widespread use. Some men do not always want to use condoms, due to a perceived reduced sexual pleasure. Education on the proper use of condoms is rare. This leads to condoms having a reputation for being ineffective. There are also many misconceptions as to the risks of having a vasectomy.
Surveys suggest that men and women show great interest in a new, reversible male contraception option. Some men express the desire to share the responsibility of contraception. This would balance out how much control they have over the decision to have a baby. Many men fear being trapped in a relationship due to an unwanted pregnancy. Sharing the responsibility of contraception can build trust in a relationship. Cost is also a factor.
Dr. Eli Rosen, sex educator, states that much of South Africa’s contraceptives are distributed by the government, which makes them significantly more affordable. They express doubt that the government would take up supplying a contraceptive like this. Unlike condoms, they do not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Because STIs are still a high priority target, the South African government might not want to pivot from distributing condoms.
A new non-hormonal and reversible male contraceptive entering the market is an enticing prospect for couples. Time will tell whether the interest translates into widespread adoption.
Communication is key in order to assure the wider public that the process is safe. A cost analysis is still required to determine the total expense.
