The soaring price of condoms

The soaring price of condoms

From Unexpected Elements by BBC World Service

May 1, 2026 · 50 min

About this episode

This episode explores the unexpected rise in condom prices due to geopolitical events and delves into various aspects of contraception research.

The blockade on the strait of Hormuz has led to an unexpected consequence – condom prices are set to increase by up to 30 percent! This has us delving into all things contraception, starting with koala hormone implants, the lengthy process of providing birth control to elephants, and a microplastics mystery. Then, we investigate the elusive male contraceptive – why is it taking so long to develop, and why has it been so hard to approve? Professor John Amory Md, from UW Medical Centre in Seattle, joins us to explain the past, present and future of this medical research. Plus, how have Chinese researchers cracked the code on eel breeding, and does the moon’s gravity make us lighter at night? Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Leonie Joubert and Sandy Ong Producer: Ella Hubber, with Alice Lipscombe Southwell, Robbie Wojciechowski and Georgia Christie

People in this episode

Host: Marnie Chesterton

Guest: Professor John Amory Md

Topics covered

  • contraception
  • condom prices
  • male contraceptive
  • koala hormone implants
  • elephant birth control
  • eel breeding
  • microplastics

Keywords

  • condom prices
  • contraception
  • male contraceptive
  • koala hormone implants
  • elephant birth control
  • eel breeding
  • microplastics

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: UW Medical Centre, BBC World Service

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