Testicular suspension as a method of male contraception: technique and results.

TLDR: A simple, safe, and reversible method of contraception was used on 28 male volunteers; the sperm count dropped to severe oligozoospermia and pregnancy did not occur and testicular biopsy showed normal spermatogenesis and pregnancy occurred.

Abstract: A simple safe and reversible method of contraception was used on 28 male volunteers. The testicles were suspended in the superficial inguinal pouch close to the scrotal neck using 2 procedures--stitch and ball suspension. In the former (15 men) the testicle was suspended by stitches and in the latter (13 men) the same thing was done using ball suspension. After 1 year suspension was released. Examination of testicular size temperature and biopsy and semen as well as serum testosterone follicle stimulating hormone luteinizing hormone and prolactin were performed before and after testicular suspension and after testicular release. Sexual intercourse was practiced during both procedures; it was prohibited in the 1st 3 months of suspension. During suspension the sperm count dropped to severe oligozoospermia and pregnancy did not occur. There was significant decrease in serum testosterone with prolactin increase. Testicular biopsy showed degeneration of the seminiferous tubules. 6 months following testicular release sperm count and serum hormone levels had returned to normal. The testicular biopsy showed normal spermatogenesis and pregnancy occurred. (authors modified)