For decades, birth control has primarily been the responsibility of women. But that may be about to change.
There’s increasing interest in male birth control options, and researchers are making progress on several fronts. These new developments promise men more choices in family planning and a more equitable sharing of responsibility.
This article will explore the potential cost of a male birth control pill, looking at both current research and potential future pricing models.
The Current Reality: Limited Male Contraceptive Options and Associated Costs
Right now, men don’t have a lot of choices when it comes to birth control. And each choice comes with its own price tag.
Existing Male Contraception Methods
Men primarily rely on two methods to prevent pregnancy:
- Condoms: You can find these everywhere, but they’re not as effective as hormonal birth control methods, like the pill. The cost depends on the brand and how many you buy at once.
- Vasectomy: This is a permanent surgical procedure. While often covered by insurance, a vasectomy can still be pretty expensive.
Why Vasectomy Isn’t Always the Answer
Vasectomies are intended to be permanent. That’s a big decision!
While it is possible to reverse a vasectomy, it’s not always successful. The longer it’s been since the vasectomy, the less likely a reversal will work. Even if the surgery is successful, pregnancy isn’t guaranteed. So, vasectomy is really only a good option if you’re 100% sure you don’t want to have any (more) kids.
The Future is Near: Male Birth Control Pill Development
While the male birth control pill isn’t available just yet, promising research and clinical trials are underway.
Promising Research and Clinical Trials
One potential male birth control pill, called DMAU, aims to suppress male hormones and reduce sperm production. If you’re looking for ways to increase testosterone naturally, there are other options to explore as well. While clinical trials are underway, a commercially available product is still likely years away.
How Male Birth Control Pills Work
The male birth control pill works by suppressing hormones like testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). This hormonal suppression reduces sperm production.
The potential benefits of a male birth control pill include increased male involvement in family planning. However, potential drawbacks include side effects like acne, headaches, and erectile dysfunction.
Cost Projections and Accessibility
It’s tough to say what the cost of a male birth control pill will be once it’s available. Factors that will influence the price include manufacturing costs, the expense of research and development, and the level of market competition.
Future accessibility may depend on insurance coverage and government programs, similar to how female birth control pills are currently handled.
Female Birth Control Pill Costs: A Comparative Perspective
When we talk about the cost of a male birth control pill, it helps to have a baseline for what female birth control pills cost right now.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Female Birth Control Pills
The cost of birth control pills for women can range quite a bit, from $0 to around $50 a month, depending on a few things.
If you have health insurance, it often covers birth control pills at no cost to you. However, what’s covered can vary from plan to plan, so it’s always a good idea to check.
Also, there are government assistance programs like Medicaid that can help cover the costs for those who qualify.
Over-the-Counter Options: Opill as an Example
Recently, the first over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill in the US, called Opill, became available. Made by Perrigo, it’s priced at about $19.99 for a one-month supply and $49.99 for a three-month supply.
Having an OTC option like Opill could make birth control more accessible to more people. It also changes the conversation around cost, since you don’t need a prescription or insurance to get it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Vasalgel cost?
It’s difficult to say definitively what Vasalgel will cost because it’s not yet available on the market. However, the organization behind its development, Parsemus Foundation, aims to make it affordable and accessible, particularly in developing countries.
Where can I get male birth control pills?
Currently, you can’t. While research continues and several promising candidates are in development, there is no male birth control pill approved for use and available on the market.
Why was the male pill discontinued?
One particular trial of a hormonal male birth control injection was halted due to side effects reported by participants, including mood changes, acne, and pain at the injection site. This highlights the challenges in balancing efficacy and side effects in male hormonal contraception.
Is there a birth control pill for men?
Not yet, but the search is on! Researchers worldwide are actively working on developing a safe and effective birth control pill for men. Several promising options are in clinical trials, exploring hormonal and non-hormonal approaches.
Can a guy get birth control pills for his girlfriend?
No, a guy cannot get birth control pills prescribed for his girlfriend. Birth control pills are prescribed to the individual who will be taking them, following a consultation with a healthcare provider to assess their suitability and monitor for potential side effects.
Key Takeaways
Currently, men have few choices when it comes to birth control, while women have many — each with its own price tag and level of accessibility.
Family planning should be a shared responsibility. New birth control options for men could help distribute that responsibility more evenly.
It’s vital that all people have access to affordable contraception. When birth control is within reach for everyone, we all have more power over our reproductive health and family planning.