Scientists are in the process of developing a new male contraceptive — a gel injected into a man’s testicles in order to prevent pregnancy.
The innovative treatment, called Vasalgel, involves an injection administered into the vas deferens — the tube which sperm passes through on the way to the penis.
The gel — a polymer hydrogel — blocks the tube, preventing sperm from passing through.
Unlike a vasectomy, which cuts the vas deferens and is therefore permanent, Vasalgel can be flushed out with another polymer gel.
This makes it a long-acting, reversible contraceptive — comparable to contraceptive implants, injections, and coils for women — which lasts up to 10 years.
It is also hoped that Vasalgel, which was created by the not-for-profit medical solutions developer Parsemus Foundation, will be an affordable option.
Source: NYpost.com
