Birth pill for men '100% effective'

Scientists have developed a contraceptive pill for men said to be 100 per cent effective and free from unpleasant side effects.

The news is being described as the greatest advance since the launch of the Pill for women 50 years ago.

The treatment involves an implant under the skin - meaning men cannot forget to take it - and hormone injections.

A tablet version could be available in as little as two to three years.

Previous efforts to develop male contraceptives have been beset by problems over reliability and offputting side effects, including mood swings and lack of sexdrive. But some men found the new treatment boosted their libido, a result expected to make it highly popular.

Trials are continuing, but such a pill could revolutionise family planning by offering men and women equal responsibility.