Since its introduction in the 1960s, the word "pill" has come to mean a hormone-containing tablet to control female ovulation.
Pretty soon, the "pill" will not be exclusive to women.
Researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts accidentally discovered a chemical that can turn on or turn off a male's sperm production.
Dr. James Bradner, the lead researcher, was working on a group of mice using a compound, called JQ1, to block cancer-causing genes. During the experiment, he noted that male mice who received JQ1 produced fewer and less mobile sperm.
Photo courtesy of Thinkstock.
Sperm count returned to normal levels after chemical JQ1 was discontinued. This supports the theory that the drug's effects are reversible making it ideal for contraception.
Although it will take a few more years to bring chemical JQ1 from the laboratory to your doorstep, scientists are very excited by its discovery since there has been no reversible contraceptive for men since the discovery of the condom by the ancient Egyptians ages ago.
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Dr. Diana Sarmiento is a mother of three, part-time doctor, and a full-time wife and mother. The topics closest to her heart are women’s health, parenting, and any new information that she can get her hands on. Read more on her personal blog, Filipina M.D.
