Copper intravas device (IVD) and male contraception

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Contraception Development
• Primate Models

Background:

• Growing global population necessitates innovative male contraceptive methods.
• Non-hormonal, reversible male contraception is particularly desired in certain communities.
• Previous small animal studies showed promise for copper intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and reversibility of copper IUDs as a non-hormonal male contraceptive in rhesus monkeys.
• To assess the impact of copper IUDs on sperm parameters and fertility in a primate model.

Main Methods:

• Copper IUDs were inserted into male rhesus monkeys.
• Ejaculates were analyzed for copper levels, sperm viability, and motility.
• Fertility studies were conducted by mating treated males with fertile females.
• Sperm parameters and fertility rates were monitored over extended periods.

Main Results:

• Copper levels in ejaculate increased 15-35 fold up to 10 months post-insertion.
• Percentage of dead sperm increased significantly (23.0%-52.3% vs. 4.5%-14.0% in controls).
• Percentage of motile sperm decreased significantly (10-30% vs. 70-80% in controls).
• Fertility was significantly reduced up to 13 months (P<0.001) and 23 months (P<0.01).

Conclusions:

• Copper IUDs demonstrate significant contraceptive effects in male rhesus monkeys, impacting sperm quality and fertility.
• The contraceptive effect showed reversibility after 13 months, with increased sperm count and motility.
• Further research is needed to optimize the longevity of the copper IUD's contraceptive effect.