WHO eyes new male contraceptives in 10 years, expands options

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced its intention to expand the range of contraceptive options available to both men and women. The WHO revealed this news in a statement published on September 23, 2026, in conjunction with World Contraception Day, which is observed annually on September 26. According to the organisation, the updated guidelines aim to facilitate wider access to contraceptive methods that are supported by the most current evidence.

Currently, an estimated 164 million women who wish to delay or prevent pregnancy are not using contraception. The WHO emphasizes the necessity for improved access to these methods. In the new guidelines, the WHO suggests that combined oral contraceptive pills can be taken continuously for up to one year, which may serve as an alternative to the cyclical use. It also endorses the use of contraceptive implants for up to five years, potentially reducing the need for repeated clinic visits and related expenses.

Moreover, the WHO endorses mifepristone as an additional emergency contraception option. This should be taken as soon as possible within five days of unprotected sexual intercourse, based on evidence that the drug is likely to be as safe and effective as other emergency contraceptive methods. WHO Director of Sexual, Reproductive, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing Pascale Allotey highlighted that choice is a gender equality issue, emphasizing that men and women require a variety of contraceptive options that reflect the advancements in science and innovation, considering factors such as convenience, invasiveness, behavior, reliability, and accessibility.

The WHO noted that men currently have limited contraceptive methods, primarily relying on condoms, withdrawal, and vasectomy. Approximately 30% of couples worldwide rely on male methods despite the restricted options. Research has challenged the common belief that men are unlikely to adopt new contraceptive methods. WHO data indicates that more than 75% of surveyed couples would be willing to use a new male contraceptive, with over 85% of women surveyed expressing trust in their male partners to assume responsibility for contraception.

To facilitate the development of new male contraceptive products, the WHO has developed its first Target Product Profile for such methods. This document outlines the characteristics that future male contraceptive methods should aim to meet, including safety, efficiency, acceptability, and affordability. Several hormonal and non-hormonal male contraceptive methods are under investigation, with several promising candidates in advanced clinical trials.

The WHO stated that new reversible male contraceptive options could become available in the market within the next five to ten years.

However, the WHO also called for further research into ormeloxifene before its inclusion in family planning programs, citing limited evidence on its safety. The organisation also recommended against adding quinestrol-containing contraceptive pills to national contraceptive programs due to the limited evidence and reports of serious adverse events. The WHO aims to support countries in updating their policies and family planning strategies based on the most recent scientific evidence.