Researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill report in the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology that ultrasound, if used to zap testicles, can reduce sperm counts, indicating its chances to be used as a male contraception in the near future, reports ABC News.

A team of researchers spearheaded by James Tsuruta, assistant professor of paediatrics in the laboratories of reproductive biology at UNC Chapel Hill, found that ultrasound zaps can lower the sperm concentrations of semen in rats. Scientists used therapeutic ultrasound technology, one which is used by physical therapists for treatment of muscle injuries, notes the American broadcaster.

The news source learns that study authors observed that if testes underwent two 15-minute zap sessions, they are effective in abolishing the germ cells that produce sperms. Citing the results of the study, James Tsuruta said ultrasound dropped sperm counts 10-times lower than just what heat did, adding that now we want to learn how this actually works and can we use it repeatedly.

According to the researchers, although zaps seem to be a promising birth control option in the future but more follow up researches are required to evaluate long term health effects of the treatment and determining whether the process is reversible for men who hope to become fathers, reports the US-based broadcaster.

Commenting on the research, Dr. Ryan Terlecki, assistant professor of urology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, told ABC News that this new method, even if proven safe and effective for consumer use, can’t close the window of opportunity for viable sperm.

It may be noted that the research for male contraception has been going on for long, but nor oral contraception pills for men proved effective, neither male hormone injections showed any promise.