These docs say men should have a more equitable role in reproductive health—but are they ready for it?

Historically, reproductive health discussions have centered on women, often neglecting the significant role men play in contraception, fertility, and family planning. However, two recently proposed bills, both entitled the "Contraception Begins at Erection Act," have brought attention to the importance of shared responsibility.^[][]

So, what's the issue?

Board-certified physician Randall Turner, DO, stresses, "Society tends to put most of the responsibility (and the blame) on women when it comes to birth control, pregnancy, and even infertility. That needs to change." He further adds, “Many men do not seek reproductive health advice unless they are facing a specific issue, like fertility struggles or an STI.”

Despite the recognized importance of male involvement, several barriers hinder men's active participation in reproductive health care. These are, primarily, socio-cultural factors, such as traditional gender roles and patriarchal norms, which have discouraged men from participating in reproductive health services.

But it’s not the whole story: A review published in BMC Public Health identified various obstacles, including misinformation, limited knowledge of men's roles in reproductive services, and a lack of awareness about the importance of male engagement in maternity care.^[]

Current male contraceptive limitations

Presently, male-controlled contraceptive options are limited to condoms and vasectomy. While condoms are widely used, their effectiveness is contingent on consistent and correct usage. Vasectomy offers a permanent solution but is often met with hesitation due to misconceptions about its impact on sexual function and masculinity. 

A 2022 US survey found that only 50.1% of men correctly understood that vasectomy does not reduce sexual desire, while 48.4% accurately recognized that it does not impair erectile function.^[]

The latest advancements

Dr. Turner adds, “Educating boys and young men early about their role in reproductive health, expanding access to male-focused contraception options, and normalizing open conversations about fertility and family planning would go a long way in shifting the dynamic.”

A promising development is a hormonal gel combining segesterone acetate (Nestorone) and testosterone, which suppresses sperm production more rapidly than previous hormonal methods.^[][] This gel is currently undergoing a multicenter Phase 2b clinical trial, with preliminary results indicating its potential as an effective contraceptive.

A non-hormonal alternative for male contraception is occlusion gels, which create a physical barrier to block sperm movement.^[] These hydrogels are injected into the vas deferens, forming a semi-solid block that prevents sperm from reaching semen during ejaculation; this is similar to vasectomy but without the cutting. Two companies are leading development: Contraline’s ADAM is in Phase 1 trials in Australia, showing no adverse effects or pregnancies over 12 months. Meanwhile, NEXT Life Sciences’ Plan A seeks 2026 approval, though testing thus far has been limited to animals.

Consider these strategies in the clinic

In 2015, the WHO recognized male involvement during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum as key to improving maternal and newborn health.^[] A meta-analysis revealed that male participation in maternal health is largely focused on accompanying women to healthcare services, offering financial assistance, or arranging transport. However, factors like communication, emotional support, and joint decision-making receive less attention.

Dr. Turner shares his approach: "I make it a point to create a non-judgmental space where men feel comfortable asking questions. The key is normalizing these conversations so men feel like active participants rather than outsiders in reproductive care."