Does testosterone level decrease with sexual activity?

From the Guidelines

Testosterone levels do not significantly drop with sexual activity, and in fact, sexual activity can temporarily increase testosterone levels in both men and women. Regular sexual activity has been associated with maintaining healthy testosterone levels over time. During sexual arousal and orgasm, there is typically a short-term increase in testosterone, not a decrease. After ejaculation in men, there may be a brief refractory period with hormonal changes, but this doesn't represent a meaningful drop in overall testosterone levels. For men concerned about testosterone levels, regular sexual activity (either with a partner or through masturbation) is generally considered beneficial for hormonal health. The relationship between sexual activity and testosterone is bidirectional - healthy testosterone levels can increase sexual desire, while sexual activity can help maintain testosterone production. Other factors like sleep quality, exercise, diet, and stress management have much more significant impacts on testosterone levels than sexual frequency. If you're concerned about low testosterone, focus on these lifestyle factors rather than limiting sexual activity. According to the American College of Physicians guideline on testosterone treatment in adult men with age-related low testosterone 1, a gradual, age-associated decline in serum total testosterone levels begins in men in their mid-30s and continues at an average rate of 1.6% per year. However, this guideline does not address the effect of sexual activity on testosterone levels. Another study on the efficacy and safety of testosterone treatment in men found that testosterone therapy may provide small improvements in sexual functioning and quality of life, but the evidence is of low certainty 1.

Key Points

• Testosterone levels do not significantly drop with sexual activity
• Sexual activity can temporarily increase testosterone levels in both men and women
• Regular sexual activity is associated with maintaining healthy testosterone levels over time
• Other lifestyle factors, such as sleep quality, exercise, diet, and stress management, have a more significant impact on testosterone levels than sexual frequency
• The relationship between sexual activity and testosterone is bidirectional, with healthy testosterone levels increasing sexual desire and sexual activity helping to maintain testosterone production

Recommendations

• For men concerned about testosterone levels, regular sexual activity is generally considered beneficial for hormonal health
• Focus on lifestyle factors, such as sleep quality, exercise, diet, and stress management, rather than limiting sexual activity if concerned about low testosterone
• Consider consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice on maintaining healthy testosterone levels.

From the Research

Testosterone Levels and Sexual Activity

• The relationship between testosterone levels and sexual activity is complex, with various factors influencing sexual function, including organic, relational, and psychological factors 2.
• Studies have shown that low testosterone levels can be associated with impaired sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation, but the relationship is not always straightforward 2, 3.
• Testosterone therapy can improve sexual function in hypogonadal men, but its effectiveness depends on various factors, including the presence of comorbid metabolic conditions 4, 3.

Effects of Sexual Activity on Testosterone Levels

• Research suggests that sexual activity can influence testosterone levels, with one study finding that men with erectile dysfunction had lower testosterone levels, which increased after successful treatment and resumption of sexual activity 5.
• Another study found that testosterone levels can be affected by lifestyle factors, including physical exercise and weight reduction, which can also impact sexual function 4.
• However, the evidence is not consistent, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between sexual activity and testosterone levels.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy and Sexual Function

• Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can improve sexual function in hypogonadal men, but its effectiveness is variable and depends on individual factors, including the presence of comorbid conditions 4, 3.
• TRT may be more effective when combined with lifestyle interventions, such as weight reduction and physical exercise, which can also improve sexual function 4, 3.
• The role of TRT in improving sexual function is still debated, and more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and optimal use.