Researchers have found a male birth control method boasting a 96% success rate, but the study was cut short when 20 out of 320 men dropped out, complaining about side effects like mood changes.
Hormonal birth control has been a game changer for women, allowing them to take charge of their fertility and family planning. It’s one of the most significant medical advancements of the 20th century, but let’s be real: it comes with its fair share of downsides. Women have been enduring weight gain, mood swings, acne, and a host of other side effects from the pill for decades. Yet, we’re expected to simply accept this as part of the package.
For instance, consider the joys of natural childbirth or the agony of menstrual cramps. Women are literally expected to swallow hormones to avoid unplanned pregnancies while dealing with the unpleasant side effects.
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Now, it seems we were getting closer to a male hormonal birth control pill, but not quite. Although researchers discovered a male contraceptive injection with a 96% success rate, the study had to be halted prematurely as 20 men couldn’t manage the side effects.
The study, which included 320 men ages 18 to 45, reported that six men left solely due to mood changes, while others cited issues ranging from acne and panic at the first injection to palpitations and erectile dysfunction. Interestingly, eight of the men mentioned multiple mood-related side effects.
Just last month, another major study revealed that women on oral contraceptives are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with depression. In fact, those using the combined pill were 23% more likely to face depression, and those using the progestin-only pill (the mini-pill) had a 34% higher risk. For teens, the risk skyrockets to 80% with the combined pill and doubles with the mini-pill.
Despite these alarming statistics, hormonal birth control remains easily accessible to women, and the side effects—such as weight gain, depression, and mood changes—are generally brushed aside.
A press release for the recent study stated, “Men can take birth control shots to prevent pregnancy in their female partners, according to a new study. Researchers are still working to perfect the combination of hormonal contraceptives to reduce the risk of mild to moderate side effects, including depression and other mood disorders.” Wouldn’t it be nice if researchers treated women’s health with the same level of concern?
It’s downright comical that men seem to require a birth control method with zero side effects before it hits the market. Can we get one of those too, please? Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression compared to men—can we please get a little more attention to our mental health?
It’s amusing that we are often labeled the “weaker sex” and accused of whining too much. Just imagine childbirth if men had to endure it—our species might face extinction because men would only consider pregnancy if guaranteed no weight gain or pain!
H/T to Broadly for the insights.
For more on fertility and home insemination, check out this excellent resource at Facts About Fertility.
In summary, while researchers are making strides in male birth control, it seems that men can’t handle the side effects as well as women have for decades. Women continue to bear the brunt of hormonal side effects without much support. The disparity in expectations between genders regarding health and well-being is stark.