There are various types of contraceptive methods, but women use the majority of them. While there are only two well-known contraceptives for men, there are a few more that men should be aware of so they can understand and support their partners in the process. Contraceptive procedures should be a joint decision for couples, not coerced upon each other.
As a male, it is important to have knowledge of the different contraceptive methods available. Currently, only a small portion of the male population is aware of contraceptives, and it is time to increase that awareness. Continue reading to learn about different contraceptive methods!
1. Condoms
Condoms are the most well-known and cheapest contraceptive methods that require a monetary investment. They are also among the most easily accessible contraceptives, with a significant success rate, making them favored by both males and females. Although female condoms exist, male regular condoms are more commonly used, making them one of the main contraceptives for men.
2. Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a more expensive form of contraception and the only one that is primarily permanent (though it can be reversed). It is a male-only contraceptive that involves surgery. Various methods can be employed, but all aim to seal the vas deferens of the male organ, the pathway through which sperm flows to exit the penis.
Vasectomies have a high success rate, with rare cases reporting side effects such as excess bleeding or pain. It is a guaranteed contraceptive with an extremely low failure rate. However, it takes time to be in full effect, usually three months, during which it is recommended to use other contraceptive methods. This permanence is a significant drawback, making it unsuitable for individuals who wish to have children.
3. Spermicide
Another common form of contraception is spermicide. It is sprayed on the inside of the vagina and works by killing the sperm that enters, preventing fertilization. It is not as effective as the other methods mentioned and has a low success rate. Proper application can be challenging, so it is usually recommended to use another form of contraception, such as a condom, in conjunction with spermicide for increased effectiveness in case the condom comes off or breaks.
4. Fertility Tracking
Fertility tracking involves monitoring your partner's menstrual cycle to avoid sexual activity during high-fertility times. This is a cost-free contraceptive method for men with a decent success rate, contingent on the consistency of the cycle, which makes tracking easier. However, inconsistency can reduce the success rate significantly. Although sometimes recommended, this method is not the most reliable contraceptive for men.
5. Outercourse
Outercourse is the practice of sexual activity without involving penetration with the penis. It mostly consists of foreplay, oral sex, or the use of sex toys to achieve sexual satisfaction. While it may not be suitable for those who enjoy only penetrative sex and can be challenging to maintain high levels of arousal with only foreplay, it is one of the most effective contraceptives for men. It is free and comes with a guaranteed success rate.
Conclusion
Male contraceptives are fewer in number compared to female contraceptives, and most contraceptives for men have a high failure rate. However, it is crucial to be aware of the different types so that you can choose the best one for you and your partner. Additionally, it is worth noting that male contraceptives are undergoing further research, and there are discussions about creating a male contraceptive pill in the future. As of now, no such pill is available on the market, and the methods mentioned above are the best options.
Written by: Ridhiman Das
Edited by: Aniket Joshi