Contraception with Andro-switch: 10 questions to ask yourself before you start
Is the Andro-Switch effective?
Yes, it is 99.5% effective. The Andro-switch provides one of the safest forms of male contraception, provided that the thermal contraceptive protocol is followed with regular follow-up semen analyses.
How the thermal ring works?
The silicone ring keeps the testicles close to the body. Body heat then stops sperm production, allowing for the male contraceptive process to start.
How do I get the famous ring?
Andro-switch is in the process of being certified to be accessible to all, in the meantime you can dress up your interior space with a reversible talisman 😉
Does it hurt?
No, male contraception with the Andro-Switch is not painful if you don’t have any contraindications. After fitting the ring, it may take a few hours for a sensation of discomfort to subside.
Is it reversible?
Yes, 100%. The studies carried out show complete reversibility within 6 to 9 months after removing the Andro-Switch.
Andro-switch, any dangers?
No, but the following side effects may occur: Temporary irritation or discomfort, as well as a decrease in testicle volume of 1 gram, but further research and use of the device may reveal other side effects.
Are there any contraindications?
Yes, any abnormalities or a previous history of problems in the groin, pubic area, penis or testicles are considered contraindications and should be discussed with your doctor. In addition, the semen analysis taken before wearing the thermal ring must show fertility values within the WHO standards.
Does it change the texture of my sperm?
No. Spermatozoa represent less than 1% of the total volume of semen. Consistency, colour and smell do not change when using the Andro-switch ring.
Is it possible to have sex while wearing the Andro-switch?
Yes, if you wish, but only a condom will protect against STIs. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the Andro-switch is based on daily use and not on wearing it only during sex.
How do I put the thermal ring on?
Fitting the ring naturally lifts the testes into the desired position. To do so slide the Andro-switch around the penis at its base. Under the penis, gently pull the skin of the scrotum to pass it through to the other side of the ring. This action will pull the testes snugly up against the pubis.
Where to start?
First of all, download the following documents to read carefully:
- the user manual and
- the doctor-patient mutual consent form.
And give the form to your doctor who will in turn carry out the necessary tests and prescribe a semen analysis to establish whether the Andro-switch and thermal male contraception are appropriate for your situation.
Efficient, comfortable,
ecological, Politically engaged
The Andro-switch has been specifically designed to ensure that the testes are held in a raised position in the left and right inguinal canals - a position that is necessary for the process of male thermal contraception to occur.
Contracepting with the Andro-switch is an act based on the human right to have control over our own bodies and our responsibility as individuals to ourselves and to others.
Patented
Handcrafted in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France, the Andro-switch is 100% “Made in France”.
Ecological
Free from hormones, latex and toxic colourants, the Andro-switch has minimal impact on the environment.
Practice
100% biocompatible silicone, the Andro-switch is comfortable and easy to clean. You’ll forget you’re wearing it no sooner than it’s on.
Politically engaged
Using the Andro-Switch as a method of contraception gives you the freedom to control your own body and to take responsibility as an individual.
How to choose your ring size?
- Take a ruler or a measuring tape.
- 1. Stand up, uncover your penis and place the ruler at the base. Measure the width of your penis, at rest, and write it down.
- 2. After achieving an erection, place the ruler back at the base of your penis and record the width of your penis.
- Choose your size (A, N, D, etc...) according to the measurement of the erect penis, using the table below.
- Do not hesitate to order an extra test ring, which you can send back and receive a full refund.
Using the AndroSwitch - tutorials
Putting the Andro-Switch in place
Putting the Andro-switch in place
Wash your hands. Clean the thermal ring with mild soap and warm water, then rinse it before gently patting it dry with a clean towel or soft cloth.
Insert the penis into the thermal ring. Then gently slide the skin of the scrotum all the way inside the ring until it is in contact with the pubis (the area above your penis) and the perineum (the area between your anus and your scrotum). This action will push both testes into their respective inguinal canals either side of the base of the penis. Once there they will be in the warmer environment that is required for male thermal contraception to function optimally.
Wash your hands.
By gentle palpation check that the testes are in their respective inguinal canals above the thermal ring.
Too big, too small?
The silicone ring is too big when, despite following this protocol, one or both testicles remain below the ring. As long as the testes are above or at the same level as the ring, they will be exposed to the correct body temperature.
You will know if a ring is too small if it leaves impressions on the skin of the penis or when erections do not subside naturally. These indicate that your penis remains engorged with blood due to too much compression. If this is the case, remove the ring immediately.
Positioning
To ensure comfort and effectiveness, the contraceptive ring should be placed over the penis as close to the pubic bone as possible. It is important to insert the entire penis and the scrotal skin ( without the testes) through the thermal ring - this action will push the testicles into their respective inguinal canals.
When in the correct position, the thermal ring should be in contact with the pubis (the area above your penis) and the perineum (the area between your anus and the scrotum).
Removing the AndroSwitch
Wash your hands.
Gently slide the thermal ring off.
Clean the heat ring with mild soap and warm water, then rinse before gently patting it with a clean towel or soft cloth.
Wash your hands.
The document "ANDRO-SWITCH installation and removal instructions", that is included in the Andro-switch pack, provides a step-by-step guide to ensure optimal positioning and removal of the thermal ring.
ANY QUESTIONS?
Consult our FAQ
more questions?
Meeting every Tuesday from 7 to 8:30 pm at the online office
still have QUESTIONS?
Ask your questions on the independent facebook group
practice together?
The community of mutual aid and sharing of ring users
To join, write to us with proof of purchase
FURTHER INFORMATION
the Andro-Switch pack
The pack includes the instructions for use that you must read as well as all the information you will need during your practice of male thermal contraception with the ring. For the technical data of the other toolsplease refer toARDECOM.
With the COOPérative entrelac.coop
Certification pending
Key information about the situation and how you can support us.
Current situation
On 10 December last year, the ANSM suspended sales of the Andro-Switch ring. This ring has enabled thousands of users to use contraception over the past few years, promoting contraceptive equity and nourishing a rich and active community. The company Thoreme, which was responsible for its distribution, has become an information-only site.
What we stand for
We need more than ever to defend contraceptive equity and the right for everyone to take their fertility into their own hands. We feel that our personal, sexual and gender practices and preferences are being discriminated against and that, by gaining official recognition of the value of thermal testicular contraceptive devices like the Andro-Switch, we can reverse this trend.
Certification pending
In order to be able to distribute the Andro-Switch ring as well as the other thermal contraception devices, we are entering a European Certification process. This requires colossal means (nearly one million euros!) as well as clinical trials with very strict frameworks. On this long road we are taking, we will need your support! Good news! The cooperative has just raised 300.000 dollars to start the certification!
A cooperative for male contraception
Andro-switch is supported by the ENTRELAC cooperative in its access to regulation and marketing. For more information, and to become a member, contact them.
Press coverage
recent articles and reports on male contraception and on the Andro-Switch ring
