There is no denying that the contraceptive pill has been a huge boon to women, finally giving them reliable control over their fertility.  It seems though that there may be an unexpected price to be paid.

New Scientist has an article here:

http://www.newscientist.com/blogs/shortsharpscience/2011/11/contraceptive-pill-linked-to-p.html?DCMP=OTC-rss&nsref=online-news

Discussing a recent study that has showed a correlation between use of the contraceptive pill by women and increased incidences of prostate cancer in men in the same countries.

The reason for the correlation isn’t clear at all, but the researchers did have this to say:

“One hypothesis is that the level of pill use in a population gives an indication of the amount of sexual activity, which has previously been linked to prostate cancer (Epidemiology, DOI: 10.1097/00001648-200201000-00012). But Margel and Fleshner didn’t find a correlation between prostate cancer and the use of other contraceptives such as condoms or vaginal barriers, which might also indicate levels of sexual activity.

The pair favours a different hypothesis. They think that the oestrogen-like chemicals which are by-products of metabolism of the pill pass into the urine and ultimately make their way into the water supply.”

Now as a man, I have to say that is just a little bit scary.  Thankfully the majority of the water that I drink is rain water that I catch myself.  This is far from perfect, but it does means that I won’t be increasing my risk of prostate cancer in that way.

This leads me to my main point: I have never liked the idea of women having to take the pill any more than they absolutely need to.  I also know a number of women for whom the pill has nasty side effects.

So, when my partner and I decided some time ago that we didn’t want to have children, my response was to have a vasectomy.  It was quick, simple (done under local anaesthetic), basically painless and completely effective.  It is also much safer than a tubal ligation for a woman – which is a fairly major piece of surgery.

I am told however that many men don’t like the idea.  Well guys, if you have a family and aren’t planning on more children, then here’s a good reason to have The Snip.  If it means that your partner gets to go off the pill, then I am guessing that we could dramatically reduce the consumption of the pill and therefore reduce the oestrogen-like chemicals in our water supply.

Most men love sex and require it in their relationship.  If that’s the case then we should be taking more of the responsibility for contraception in our relationships.  And perhaps doing ourselves a favour into the bargain.

John.