Reviewed by a GPhC-registered Pharmacist at Newdays Pharmacy | Published: 2026 | Book an appointment
| Quick Answer: The only currently available male contraception methods in the UK are condoms and vasectomy. No hormonal or non-surgical long acting reversible contraceptive for men is currently licensed in the UK, though several are in clinical trials. Condoms are the only method that also provides protection against sexually transmitted infections. A pharmacist can advise on all contraceptive options for both partners. |
Male Contraception advice at pharmacies is often directed at women, partly because the majority of currently available methods are female directed. But contraception is a shared responsibility, and understanding what methods are available for men, both currently and in the near future, is an important part of comprehensive contraceptive counselling at Newdays Pharmacy in Berkshire.
Currently Available Male Contraceptive Methods in the UK
Condoms
External condoms (male condoms) remain the only male contraceptive method available over the counter in the UK that provides contraceptive protection. With perfect use, condoms have a failure rate of approximately two percent per year. With typical use, reflecting real world patterns of incorrect use, breakage, and inconsistency, the failure rate rises to approximately thirteen percent per year.
Condoms are the only contraceptive method that also provides significant protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis. This dual protection makes them the recommended method for new partners or those not in mutually exclusive relationships, regardless of whether other contraceptive methods are also being used.
Internal condoms (female condoms) are another option and can be used by women but represent a male contraception consideration in terms of reducing male partner contribution to contraceptive provision.
Vasectomy
Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure in which the vas deferens (the tubes carrying sperm from the testicles to the urethra) are cut, tied, or sealed, preventing sperm from being included in ejaculate. It is one of the most effective permanent contraceptive methods available, with a failure rate of less than 0.1 percent. Vasectomy does not affect testosterone levels, sexual function, or ejaculation volume (ninety five percent of ejaculate volume is seminal fluid, not sperm).
Vasectomy should be considered permanent. Reversal is possible but becomes less successful with increasing time since the original procedure and is not reliably available on the NHS. It is not suitable for men who wish to retain the possibility of fathering children.
What Is in Development? The Pipeline for Male Contraception
Several hormonal and non hormonal male contraceptive approaches are in clinical development, though none are yet licensed in the UK:
- Hormonal male contraceptives: testosterone based injectable and gel combinations that suppress sperm production are in Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials. These approaches are effective at reducing sperm counts to azoospermic or severely oligospermic levels but have not yet achieved the regulatory approval required for UK prescription
- Non hormonal approaches: compounds targeting sperm specific proteins involved in fertilisation or sperm motility are in earlier stage development
- Relugolix and similar approaches: GnRH antagonists that suppress gonadotropins are being explored in combination formulations
The current expectation among reproductive health researchers is that a licensed reversible hormonal male contraceptive could become available in the UK within five to ten years, though regulatory timelines are uncertain.
Shared Contraceptive Responsibility: A Practical Conversation
When advising patients at Newdays Pharmacy on contraception, we encourage conversations about shared responsibility. Understanding all available methods, for both partners, allows couples to choose the most appropriate combined approach. In particular, combining a highly effective female directed method (such as an IUS, implant, or LARC) with condoms for STI protection is a highly effective combined strategy for many couples.
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Frequently Asked Questions
No. There is currently no male oral contraceptive pill licensed for use in the UK. Although several male contraceptive pills are being studied in clinical trials, none have yet received regulatory approval. At present, the main contraceptive options for men are condoms and vasectomy.
No. A vasectomy does not affect testosterone levels, sex drive, erections or sexual performance. The procedure simply prevents sperm from being included in semen and has no impact on the hormonal or physical aspects of sexual function.
Your GP can discuss contraception choices and refer you for a vasectomy assessment if appropriate. At Newdays Pharmacy, our pharmacists can provide confidential advice on the full range of contraceptive options available and help you choose the method, or combination of methods, that best suits your needs.
| Clinical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment or medication. Information is accurate as of the date of publication and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist. Newdays Pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Branch registration numbers: Eton/Windsor 1029048 | Twyford 1028983 | Coley Park Reading 1029008. |