The Effect of Birth Control on Males

Estrogen and progesterone are the two hormones found in birth control pills. Although these two hormones are found in both males and females, too much of these hormones can have negative side effects for both sexes.

Function

Birth control pills help a woman control her fertility. They suppress ovulation, the time each month when a woman releases an egg.

Benefits

Estrogen in the male body aids in sperm development and allows for a healthy libido. Progesterone aids in the production of testosterone.

Effects

Even thought the male body needs these low levels of estrogen and progesterone, they can also have unwanted side effects when levels are too high. These side effects include a lowered sex drive, additional fat and loss of muscle mass.

Theories/Speculation

Some doctors, such as Dr. Karlis Ullis at MesoRx, speculate that too much estrogen and progesterone can lead to prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease over the long term. One reason is because the natural lowering of testosterone to estrogen levels in older men coincides with when men are usually diagnosed with these diseases.

Warning

Self diagnosis can be detrimental and you should consult your doctor instead of taking birth control to correct libido or fertility problems. You may not need both or either of the hormones, and your doctor is the only one who can tell you for sure.

References

• MesoRx