There are several methods for birth control also called family planning. A new study, set to be released in May, points to another potential method.

“I do feel like there is hope for having a male hormonal contraceptive available—something that would be safe, effective and acceptable to men and their partners.”

Kirsten Vogelsong of the WHO says a man injected with both testosterone—the male hormone—and progestin—a synthetic female hormone— could see lower sperm counts, decreasing chances of pregnancy in his partner. 

KIRSTEN VOGELSONG: I do feel like there is hope for having a male hormonal contraceptive available—something that would be safe, effective and acceptable to men and their partners.

The system is another method of family planning, which is a hot-bottom issue in a number of developing countries, where there has been governmental interest to control population booms.

In fact, Vogelsong says there’s been interest from all over the world.

VOGELSONG: We think it is a public health need everywhere and the studies and the studies that have been done looking at demand for such a product, interest in such a product have been conducted everywhere from Iran and Fiji from Europe, Latin America, the U.S. and globally we see that there are men who are interested in using these kinds of methods.

Vogelsong says the WHO is planning clinical trials with the hormonal contraception in seven countries.

The plan calls for 400 couples to test the hormones over a year long period.

Vogelsong says all the couples will be fully aware of the risks, including getting pregnant.

Alex Helmick, World Radio Switzerland.