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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 23, 2026

A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Published on: October 2, 2018

Male hormonal contraception: where do we stand?

Ahmed Mahmoud¹, Guy T'Sjoen

¹Department of Internal Medicine, Section Endocrinology/Andrology, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium. ahmed.mahmoud@ugent.be

The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care : the Official Journal of the European Society of Contraception

|April 14, 2012

Summary

Male hormonal contraception is technically feasible, but requires pharmaceutical investment for widespread use. Current options remain limited to condoms and vasectomy.

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Area of Science:

Endocrinology
Reproductive Biology
Pharmacology

Background:

Hormonal control of spermatogenesis is well-established, predating modern genetics.
Hormonally active agents have been explored for male contraceptive development by suppressing pituitary gonadotropins.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the progress and challenges in developing male hormonal contraception.
To highlight the most promising current regimens and future directions.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on male hormonal contraception.
Analysis of hormonal agents and their effects on spermatogenesis and hormone levels.

Main Results:

High-normal or supra-physiological androgen levels are often required for spermatogenesis suppression.
Non-androgenic agents combined with testosterone supplementation show promise.
Testosterone and progestin combinations represent the most advanced regimen currently.

Conclusions:

Male hormonal contraception is technically achievable.
Further development and implementation depend on pharmaceutical industry investment.
Condoms and vasectomy are the only currently widely available male contraceptive methods.