According to a new study, using ultrasound waves on testicles can be a new contraceptive option. These waves can temporarily eliminate the germ cells before they develop into sperm cells. The study is highlighted in the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology.
The study was carried out by a team from University of North Carolina. The team used ultrasound waves on male rats. It was found that 3 megahertz high frequency ultrasound waves on the testicles of the rats, for 15 minutes, resulted in reduction in sperm count to be less than 10 million sperm per milliliter. In regards to humans, infertility takes place when the sperm count is less than 15 million per milliliter.
The research team said that ultrasound waves can cause temporary infertility in men and the effect of these waves can be reserved later. Yet, the team said that further research is still required to determine the duration of the ultrasound waves effect on testicles. In addition, more studies are required to assess the possibility of repeating the ultrasound procedure on the same patients more and more. Dr James Tsuruta, lead author of the study, said “Further studies are required to determine how long the contraceptive effect lasts and if it is safe to use multiple times”
