Birth Control Pills For Men Are Being Developed

Researchers have been working on a male equivalent of the birth control pill, in an effort to extend contraceptive duties across men and women.

The pills, which were discussed at the National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, aim to work for men as a long lasting contraceptive and as an alternative to other methods, such as condoms.

"It would be wonderful to provide couples with a safe alternative because some women cannot take birth control pills," he said.

A lot of research is going into perfecting the pills. Many involve high doses of testosterone. However, this can come with its own drawbacks. "At certain doses it causes infertility," says Jillian Kyzer, a graduate student working on the pills.

At the minute, it's a process of constant refinement, but the teams behind the drugs reckon they'll get there.

I'm guessing this news appeals to many, as a lot of people hate using condoms. Personally, I'd be worried about this simply because I'm quite forgetful. If my balls weren't in a bag I'd forget them.

Also, the pills won't protect against STIs, so it's best to wrap up no matter what.

Although the research is promising, the pills are not quite ready to hit the shelves as there are several guidelines that need to be adhered to.

There'd have to be sufficient proof that taking the pill would not lead to things like infertility and diminished libido. I'm guessing it's also necessary that it doesn't cause things like boils on your penis and an arm growing out of your arse.

Would you take them? What do you reckon, lads?