Contraception - injections to stop sperm production

About the contraceptive injection to stop sperm production

The contraceptive injection to stop sperm production involves a combination of synthetic versions of 2 naturally occurring hormones – testosterone and progesterone. This combination of hormones works to stop the body from making sperm.

A number of studies have been done using this combination of hormones – usually given as injections (although implants, tablets and gels have also been studied). Most studies have shown male hormonal contraception to be effective in preventing pregnancy.

Currently, there are no plans for a hormonal method of contraception to stop sperm production to be made available to the public in Australia. However, in the future, this type of contraception may be a suitable and acceptable form of contraception for some people.

Hormonal contraception does not give any protection from sexually transmissible infections (STIs).

Advantages of hormonal contraception to stop sperm production

Some studies have shown the advantages of hormonal contraception to stop sperm production include:

• It would give people who produce sperm a new, reversible and alternative method of contraception that they could control themselves.
• It would offer an alternative to vasectomy, which is not reliably reversible.
• It would provide an alternative for couples who cannot use currently available methods of contraception, such as the combined oral contraceptive pill.
• It would let partners share responsibility for the cost of contraception and the need to regularly visit a doctor or reproductive health nurse.

Disadvantages of hormonal contraception to stop sperm production

Some studies have shown the disadvantages of hormonal contraception to stop sperm production could include:

• Side effects include acne, night sweats, weight gain and lowered sex drive. These are usually mild and can settle with time.
• It would not give protection from STIs.
• It would take about 3 to 6 months to work and about the same length of time to wear off.
• The method would not completely stop sperm from being produced in one in 25 men who use it.
• It would take many years to assess any long-term side effects.

Choosing the right method of contraception

When you are choosing the method of contraception that is right for you, it is important to have access to accurate information and to talk openly about your options with your partner.

It is also important to think about how well each method works, the possible side effects, how easy it is to use and how much it costs. It is important to weigh the pros against the cons and think about how each method meets your current and future needs.

The method you choose will depend on your general health, lifestyle and relationships. It can help to talk about your options with a doctor or reproductive health nurse.

Protection from sexually transmissible infections

The best way to lessen the risk of STIs is to use barrier protection such as condoms. Condoms can be used for oral, vaginal and anal sex with other methods of contraception to help stop infections from spreading.

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)
• Pharmacist
• Sexual Health Victoria (SHV) – book an appointment online or call Melbourne CBD Clinic: Tel. (03) 9660 4700, SHV Box Hill Clinic: Tel. (03) 9257 0100 or (free call): Tel. 1800 013 952. These services are youth friendly
• 1800 My Options Tel. 1800 696 784 – for information about contraception, pregnancy options and sexual health in Victoria