A review on the antifertility potential of Carica papaya l. Seed extract as male contraceptive

The rising prevalence of unintended pregnancies represent a serious global issue with wide-ranging consequences. Despite the broad use of female contraceptives, their side effects and long-term risks point to the need for safer male contraceptives options. This systematic review evaluates the antifertility potential of Carica papaya L. seed extract as a male contraceptive. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted to identify studies examining the effects of Carica papaya L. seeds or seed extracts on male fertility. Eligible studies reported outcomes including sperm count, motility, morphology, fertility indices, and histopathological changes. The evidence shows that C. papaya seed extracts particularly the chloroform and benzene fractions, as well as bioactive constituents such as alkaloids (carpaine, pseudocarpaine, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridin-3-yl-octanoate), and benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) can produce significant effects on the male reproductive system across multiple experimental models. These effects were dose- and duration-dependent and primarily reversible upon treatment withdrawal. Toxicological evaluations showed minimal toxicity, normal body and organ weights, and no genototoxic effects. Carica papaya L. seed extracts demonstrate strong antifertility effects by impairing sperm motility, viability, count, morphology, and fertility, while remaining largely non-toxic. The effects are mostly reversible, making it a promising natural male contraceptive candidate. However, further research, including human clinical trials, long-term safety studies, and detailed mechanism investigation are needed to validate efficacy and safety.