A Scottish couple are among the first to trial a brand new male contraceptive gel.
Edinburgh University student Christopher Grey and his partner Joanna McCloskey, a student at Glasgow University, found out about the trials in an online advert and were keen to get involved.
The gel, which is being tested in Edinburgh and Manchester, is applied to the male partner’s shoulders, upper arms and pecks.
It reduces sperm count to nearly zero, replacing the testosterone lost as a result.
Chris, 21, and Joanna, 22, are one of the youngest couples taking part in the public trials.
They said the fear of falling pregnant did not put them off their role in helping to deliver a greater variety of contraceptive measures for couples.
Speaking to our sister title Glasgow Live, Joanna said: “Chris has found it absolutely fine so far. He’s been very keen to do it.
“He has quite a few spots on his back which definitely could be related, but we think it’s more because he has to wear a T-shirt in bed, so that the testosterone doesn't transfer from the gel to me.
“Pregnancy has been the only major fear we’ve had. It’s something that still worries us, but we think it’s such an important and influential study that we’re willing to take the risk.
“Especially if it’s going to relieve women from the numerous side effects associated with the pill.”
She added: “I am extremely proud to be pioneering science and extremely proud of my boyfriend who is so aware of inequality within taking contraception.
“He is extremely forward thinking and his positive attitude towards it is something I wish more men had.
“Chris’ family all know about it and are very supportive of our decisions. Our friends have also been extremely supportive.”
