—Equal responsibility

Dear Equal responsibility,

Many men would like to take on equal responsibility for contraception; unfortunately, the list of currently available contraceptive options is significantly smaller for men than for women. Male-directed methods of birth control include male condoms, vasectomy, and withdrawal (a.k.a. "pulling out"). A few points to consider about each method:

Method	Pros	Cons
Condoms (latex or polyurethane sheaths that fit over the erect penis)	98 percent effective when used correctly, every time Protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Inexpensive, widely available Many varieties, sizes	Some men find condoms uncomfortable Must be put on during sex, every time (although this 'con' can become a 'pro' if you get your partner involved and turn it into foreplay!)
Vasectomy (surgery to cut the vas deferens, the tube that sperm travel through)	Over 99 percent effective Permanent, no need to think about birth control in the heat of the moment	Not easily reversible Requires surgery, potentially expensive No STI protection
Withdrawal (when a man pulls out of his partner's vagina before ejaculating)	Always available and free Up to 96 percent effective with perfect use (meaning he pulls out before ejaculating, every time)	Approximately 20 percent failure rate with typical use No STI protection Have to pull out before climax, every time

Based on this information, you can see that a man who wants to retain his fertility and use a more reliable method of birth control may determine he is best served by condoms (condoms are also the only available method that protect against STIs). At the moment, other birth control options involve cooperating with a female partner in the use of condoms, hormonal methods, fertility awareness, and/or non-hormonal methods like an IUD or diaphragm. For more information about female-directed methods check out the Go Ask Alice! Contraception archive. Also, see the related Q&A below for more information about new male-directed methods.

A number of new male-directed methods are currently in clinical trials in the United States and other countries; however it will likely be a few years before any are on the market (read more in the related questions below). In the mean time, men and women who would like to prevent pregnancy can work with their partner(s) to identify the best method(s) for them and to share any associated costs.

Alice

Related Q&As

Reversible vasectomy?

Non-surgical contraception options for men — new methods coming?

Four kinds of condoms: A guide for consumers

Male birth control pill — available?

Is pulling out safe?