New Male Birth Control Options on the Horizon, Including a Pill and Reversible Implant

Men may soon have additional options beyond condoms and vasectomies to prevent unintended pregnancies. Researchers are developing a new generation of male contraceptives, including pills and reversible implants, with two potential products nearing market readiness.

A 2024 survey indicated a significant interest in these new methods, with 61% of men across seven countries stating they would consider trying a new male contraceptive within its first year of availability, including 49% of those in the United States. NEXT Life Sciences is at the forefront of this development, working on two distinct approaches: PausePill and Plan A.

"We have 50,000 men who’ve signed up just from word of mouth," L.R. Fox, founder and chairman of NEXT Life Sciences, told The Post. "People are signing up and saying, ‘as soon as it’s available, please.’"

PausePill: An On-Demand Contraceptive

PausePill is a non-hormonal oral contraceptive designed to provide approximately 24 hours of birth control. NEXT envisions it being taken either as an on-demand dose before sexual activity or daily for continuous protection. Unlike methods that reduce sperm count, PausePill works by interfering with the biological signal that triggers sperm release during ejaculation. This mechanism aims to maintain erections, orgasms, and sexual pleasure while preventing sperm from being expelled.

In a preliminary U.S. Phase 2 trial involving 10 men, PausePill reportedly prevented sperm release in 100% of participants who took it within two hours. The men in the trial did not report significant differences in sexual pleasure or function compared to a placebo group, and no major adverse events were noted. However, these findings are based on a small sample size and are considered preliminary. Larger clinical trials are planned to further assess the drug's efficacy and safety with repeated use. Fox stated that a larger clinical trial is anticipated to begin by the end of 2026, with the goal of bringing PausePill to market within two years, initially by prescription.

Plan A: A Long-Term Reversible Implant

For men seeking a longer-term contraception solution, NEXT is developing Plan A, a reversible implant. This method utilizes Vasalgel, a hydrogel injected into the vas deferens. Instead of cutting the tubes, as in a vasectomy, the gel forms a barrier that blocks sperm while allowing other fluids to pass. The procedure is described as a minimally invasive outpatient process, taking about 10 minutes and not requiring stitches.

After implantation, men will need to continue using other forms of birth control for up to three months, as sperm already in the reproductive tract must clear. Confirmation of azoospermia (no measurable sperm in ejaculate) via a doctor or at-home test is required before other methods can be discontinued. NEXT also has a reversal device designed to dissolve the gel and restore fertility.

An early study involving 16 men showed that all achieved azoospermia within 14 days of receiving the Vasalgel implant, with no serious adverse events reported. The reversal process is also being evaluated, with previous animal studies showing positive results, leading NEXT to express high confidence in the method's reversibility.

Growing Demand for Male Contraceptives

The development of these male contraceptives is also driven by demand from women. A 2023 survey found that two-thirds of American women were interested in their partners using contraception, citing reasons such as shared responsibility, added protection, and avoiding side effects associated with female contraceptives.