What happens when a man takes birth control pills for some time?

Gynecologist Grace Kanyi notes the long-term effects of men consuming pills are still unknown due to lack of proper research in the areas because it is not expected for them to do so. 

Recently, a Kenyan woman went online and stated that the best way to revenge on a man is to give him a dose of female contraceptive on the regular and watch him change gradually. This elicited reaction from Kenyans.

The gynaecologist condemns such actions and notes no one should play Russian roulette with another person’s health.

“It unethical, unacceptable and criminal offense and anyone who is found doing that should be prosecuted. We have never considered it and should not allow it, most men wouldn't want to be playing that kind of game,” she said.

If a man regularly took the ‘combined pill’, which contains oestrogen and progesterone hormones, it would have mild feminising effects, but it is reversible when one stops using it.

“Taking one or two pills might not have an effect, but consuming it over a period of time will. When a man takes birth control, his body gets a dose of estrogen and progesterone, hormones typically found in higher levels in women,” Grace explains. 

These hormones can cause a variety of changes in a man’s body, from physical alterations to emotional shifts.

The influx of female hormones can lead to the development of secondary female characteristics, such as breast enlargement, a decrease in body hair, and even changes in fat distribution, leading to a more feminine body shape. Worse yet, it’s not all about the physical.

“Overtime there will be some feminising effect like breast enlargement, softer skin and reduced production of facial hair and low libido. The quality of the sperm will be affected in a man who usually had a normal sperm count,” she said.

She adds the hormones in birth control pills can also affect a man’s sexual health. They can lead to a decrease in libido, erectile dysfunction, and potentially even fertility issues.