Ultrasound as a new method of male contraception
Fahim, M.S.; Fahim, Z.; Harman, J.; Thompson, I.; Montie, J.; Hall, D.G.
Fertility and Sterility 28(8): 823-831
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0015-0282 PMID: 407106 Document Number: 434037
Ultrasound was tested as a method of sterilization in cats, dogs, monkeys, and humans, utilizing an ultrasound machine manufactured by Whitewater Electronics specifically for this research. 30 male cats were divided into 3 groups, 2 experimental and 1 control. The treated groups received 1 watt/sq cm for 10 minutes once, or a 2nd time after 48 hours. Testicular biopsies were made 60 days after treatment. 24 male dogs were divided into 3 groups receiving either 1,2, or 3 treatments within a 1-week interval with 1 watt/sq cm for 10 minutes. Sperm counts were made for 5 consecutive weeks preceding ultrasound treatment and semen analyses made weekly. 6 dogs were treated with 2 watts/sq cm for 15 minutes. Antibodies to spermatozoa were determined by the Kibrick method. 4 South African monkeys were treated with 1 watt/sq cm for 10 minutes; testicular biopsies were obtained 1 month before treatment and 60 days after treatment. 1 watt/sq cm for 10 minutes. Testicular biopsies were obtained 3 weeks before treatment and orchiectomies were performed 14 -17 days after treatment. In all treated animals and human patients, ultrasound significantly suppresses spermatogenesis accoridng to the dosage and frequency of treatment, without any effect on Leydig cells or blood testosterone levels.