The Facts
Researchers at Washington State University say the development of a male contraceptive pill that disables a gene crucial for reproducing sperm may be available in five years. A breakthrough discovery of the so-called "Arrdc5" gene is enabling the new pill’s progress.
University researchers identified the expression of the gene in the testicular tissue of mice, pigs, cattle, and humans. When researchers eliminated the gene in mice, it created infertility only in the males, impacting the mobility and count of sperm.
The Spin
Narrative A
A viable male birth control pill is on the horizon, and science is very close to the breakthrough that has been desired for decades. In the wake of last year’s SCOTUS decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, reproductive care and contraception have become of even greater importance. The discovery of a gene that can inhibit sperm from fertilizing an egg without hormonal interference can bring a widely sought-after male contraceptive quite soon.
Narrative B
While there is great progress being made in the development of a male contraceptive pill, we are quite far from having it available and widely used by men. While many men say they would like to prevent unplanned pregnancies, a large portion hesitates at the idea of taking a novel pill that hasn’t been tested. There are multiple hurdles to clear before male contraceptives are a realistic, widely accepted option to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
