In what is considered a world-first, a new long-lasting but non-permanent male contraceptive implant is being trialled at Melbourne's Epworth Freemasons.
The ADAM study involves a hydrogel being injected into the vas deferens (tubes that carry sperm) to cause blockage of sperm travel, acting like a temporary vasectomy. The hydrogel dissolves after approximately two years and the procedure may then be repeated.
Twenty-five men will receive the hydrogel during a day procedure. Four have already been injected.
Professor Nathan Lawrentschuk, a urologist from Epworth Freemasons, is the study’s principal investigator.
“The three-year study will investigate whether the hydrogel is successful as a non-permanent, long-lasting male contraceptive," said Professor Lawrentschuk.
“If it is successful, it could be a game-changer, ensuring that contraception is a shared responsibility between couples.”
The men involved in the study will undergo regular health checks and provide semen samples for three years.