As of yet, there has been no widely available contraceptive that is specific to only men, other than getting a vasectomy or wearing a condom, but scientists have made breakthroughs in one that they're calling 'Vasalgel.'
Vasalgel is a male contraceptive that works by being injected into the vas deferens and is a reversible and less invasive method of halting fertility than a vasectomy would be. When men would like to have a child, they are able to flush out the polymer gel with another injection. Vasalgel is not yet available on the market, but it has been highly successful in halting fertility in trials, where it is being tested on monkeys.
This important innovation has many implications, providing men with more reasonable choices in their ability to reproduce or prevent pregnancy, and relieving some of the pressure from women who tend to be held entirely responsible when it comes to preventing pregnancy.
Male Gel Contraceptives
'Vasalgel' Successfully Blocked Fertility in Test Trials
Trend Themes
1. Male Contraceptive Revolution - The development of Vasalgel marks a new era of contraceptive options for men, disrupting the market dominated by female-based contraceptives.
2. Non-invasive Contraceptives - Vasalgel's less invasive method of contraception presents an opportunity for similar technologies that offer simpler, reversible solutions.
3. Demand for Short-term Contraceptives - The need for male contraceptives that are easier to manage, such as Vasalgel, presents an opportunity for short-term contraceptive solutions in the wider market.
Industry Implications
1. Pharmaceuticals - The pharmaceutical industry should explore the development of male-based contraceptive solutions that compete against Vasalgel.
2. Reproductive Health - The male contraceptive development encourages the creation of new products and services in reproductive health for both men and women.
3. Health Insurance - Health insurance companies may have to adjust their policies to cater to Vasalgel as more men seek new contraceptive options.