Sexual health poll: Men – would you take the male contraceptive pill?

Scientists earlier this year announced they were making headway in developing a male contraceptive pill, which for the first time would allow men to share the responsibility in taking a contraceptive medication.

Researchers at the University of Minnesota said they had altered compounds to develop a medication that works for men with fewer side-effects than current medication used by women.

The hormone testosterone has been studied as a potential male contraceptive, but there are drawbacks that need to be addressed.

"At certain doses, testosterone causes infertility, but at those doses it doesn't work for up to 20% of men, and it can cause side-effects, including weight gain and a decrease in 'good cholesterol', said Jillian Kyzer, a researcher working on the project.

There is some way to go before a formula for a hormonal contraceptive pill is perfected and available on the shelves. But as scientists progress in developing the medication, it raises the issue of whether men would take the pill if given the option.

Ahead of Sexual Health Week, we want to know whether you would take the male contraceptive pill if it were available.