Male birth control shot found effective, but side effects cut study short

CNN
November 4, 2016 | Unit 2: Population

Synopsis

A new study, conducted by health centers around the world and co-sponsored by the United Nations, found a birth control shot for men that prevented pregnancies to women. Prior to this study, much of the responsibility for birth control was placed on the woman. This study is the first in aseries of steps to allow men to play a larger role in their responsibilities of birth control.The shot contained multiple hormones, which reduced the production of sperm in men. With a lack of sperm, the men were ineffective in causing pregnancies in their partners. However, further study has been cut short due to negative side effects, such as severe depression, muscle pains, and increased acne. 75% of the men involved stated that they would want to use the product again, which may mean that the shot will be a popular choice once the side effects are worked out and the method is made available.

Analysis

The idea that one day the responsibility of preventing pregnancies may fall upon men is quite hard to believe. However, this article shows that scientists are moving in that direction. Due to the effectiveness of the shot, the crude birth rate of many countries would decline, as many pregnancies would be prevented. In addition, the total fertility rate would also decrease, as males would not be able to get females pregnant. This article relates to human geography because it shows how the population of certain countries could continue to decline with breakthroughs such as these in preventing pregnancies. Currently, one of the ways to decrease birth rates is to educate people, in particular women, about birth control and family planning. However, this shot would allow men to also need an education in family planning, as the responsibility to prevent a pregnancy would be placed on the shoulders of men.