[Non-deferential male contraception: review of the literature]

To review the state of progress of the various male contraceptive methods (with the exception of deferential methods).

A review of the literature was performed by using the key words: male/contraception, limiting the search to original articles in English and French. Articles on vasectomy and the other deferential methods of contraception are not considered in the present review.

Three methods of male contraception are widely used at the present time: withdrawal, male condom and vasectomy, although other types of male contraception have been shown to be effective, including hormonal contraception, which appears to be the most promising technique and the subject of the majority of research. Other contraceptive methods (immunological, thermal...) could constitute possible alternatives.

Male contraception remains under-used, as only male condoms are commonly used (apart from withdrawal and vasectomy). Consequently, new research protocols in the field of male contraception must be strongly encouraged.