Temporary vasectomy for men in Australian trial
The hydrogel implant could be ‘game changer’ for male contraception, says lead investigator urologist Professor Nathan Lawrentschuk
Melbourne doctors are carrying out a world-first temporary vasectomy trial using hydrogel implants to block sperm from getting into the semen.
The 25 men taking part will have the non-hormonal hydrogel injected into the vas deferens to stop sperm travelling from the testicles during ejaculation.
Urologist and principal investigator Professor Nathan Lawrentschuk said the study — funded by the US-based company Contraline — would examine whether the hydrogel offered a non-permanent alternative for male contraception.
“If it is successful, it could be a game changer, ensuring that contraception is a shared responsibility between couples,” Professor Lawrentschuk said in a statement.
