$Unique_ID{BRK00071}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is There Such a Thing as a Male Contraceptive?}
$Subject{contraception male Genitourinary System Contraceptive Contraceptives
contraceptions luteinizing hormone releasing hormones LHRH hypothalamus gland
prophylactic prophylaxis prophylactics lifestyle lifestyles}
$Volume{J-22,R-23}
$Log{
Hormones of the Hypothalamus*0002902.scf
Types of Birth Control*0002001.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There Such a Thing as a Male Contraceptive?


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QUESTION:  Is there such a thing as a male contraceptive?

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ANSWER:  Except for condoms, there is no reversible form of male
contraceptive--yet.  Research is, however, underway to find one.
     One male contraceptive that is currently under investigation is
luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH), which is a natural hormone
secreted by the hypothalamus gland.  Researchers at Vanderbilt University have
been testing LHRH on male volunteers and found that it does suppress the
production of sperm when taken for at least three months.  They will begin
further testing soon to evaluate LHRH for side effects.
     The LHRH they are using must be injected daily, which will not make it
either popular or cost effective.  If the drug were to be developed
commercially--something that won't happen for more than 10 years even if all
goes well--it would probably be a monthly injection or be administered in some
other way.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.