Does Ejaculating Make You Lose Testosterone? (The Answer)

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Published by James Cunningham, BSc, CPT | Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Last updated: March 25, 2024
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The sex hormone testosterone has many impacts on the male body, with sexual desire and fertility being the most obvious ones.

But one thing I’ve heard often is that there is also an inverse relationship and that sexual activity and ejaculation could also lower testosterone levels; speculation possibly fueled by the fact that many boxers and MMA fighters abstain from sex before a fight.

To find out the truth, I dived into the scientific literature on the relationship between ejaculation and serum testosterone level in men with the help of a doctor.

Here’s what our research revealed.

Quick Summary

  • Ejaculation does not lead to a loss of serum testosterone levels in men, debunking a common myth especially among athletes.
  • Hormonal changes post-ejaculation, like increased prolactin and decreased dopamine, are temporary and do not have a lasting effect on testosterone levels.
  • A healthy diet and regular physical activity are key strategies for naturally boosting testosterone levels.
  • Personally, I find the emphasis on debunking myths about testosterone and ejaculation in the fitness community both necessary and enlightening.

Do Guys Lose Serum Testosterone When They Ejaculate?

Holding a man's private part

No, guys don’t experience a loss of serum testosterone level when they ejaculate.

In my experience as a coach, I've seen no evidence of testosterone loss in guys post-ejaculation, aligning with scientific studies published in Journal of Endocrinology that report no measurable change in T-levels [1].

In discussions with personal trainers and a medical professional, it's clear that while some athletes, like boxers and martial artists, believe in the benefits of abstaining from ejaculation before a fight, there's no scientific evidence to support any impact on testosterone or other related hormones.

There doesn’t seem to be any other data to support this.

What could also be adding to the confusion is that testosterone has a direct impact on libido, fertility, and even premature ejaculation [2].

So, if there’s no relationship between ejaculation and testosterone, does it have other impacts?

Let’s take a look.

What Happens To Hormones After Ejaculation?

From what I've observed, men briefly experience increased prolactin and decreased dopamine after ejaculation, but this doesn't impact their testosterone levels, according to Examine [3].

The combination of these increases and decreases reduces sexual desire and also reduces the erection effect.

Chronic hormonal imbalances can lead to low testosterone and other health issues.

However, the temporary hormonal changes after orgasm, which are linked to the pleasurable feelings experienced, have no lasting effects on testosterone levels.

It's crucial to consider the psychological effects of masturbation and sexual activity, as these can have a significant impact on testosterone levels, influencing factors such as stress relief, mood improvement, and overall psychological well-being.

How Can Men Improve Their T-Levels?

A muscular person flexing muscles

Men can improve their testosterone levels directly by paying a lot more attention to what they eat and how active they are every single day.

As a personal fitness coach, I’ve helped countless clients with the help of my dietitian to come up with plans to improve fitness, reduce weight, and boost testosterone naturally.

I've consistently helped clients boost testosterone levels naturally, without medical hormone treatments. A key strategy is eliminating sugar and refined carbs in favor of a balanced diet, which aids in weight loss and positively affects testosterone levels [4].

“If you’re overweight (or obese) and have low T levels, taking off some of those pounds is one of the best things you can do to get higher T levels.”

- Neka Miller, PhD at Everlywell.com

And to then get an extra boost, you can take a natural T-booster supplement. These contain vitamins, minerals, and herbs with a proven link to triggering natural processes in the body to raise and maintain a higher T-count.

They won’t work as fast as medications, but taking them consistently for several months can have comparable and more sustainable benefits.

Are There Other Things That Could Cause Low Testosterone?

A red overlay showing low testosterone on private part

Yes, many other things can cause low testosterone levels. In my coaching career, I've identified several factors that can lead to low testosterone, but orgasms aren't among them.

Here’s what I found in medical literature published in Medical News Today, and if any of these things apply to you, then I suggest you contact your doctor [5].

Hypogonadism, a condition where the testicles underperform due to factors like injury, illness, or medication, can affect testosterone production.

Additionally, issues with the pituitary gland, which regulates testosterone production, can also contribute to lower levels.

And in my experience, one of the most common things that influence T-levels is a poor diet and exercise routine [6].

And when those lifestyle choices gradually lead to obesity, then the impact on testosterone can lead to a vicious cycle.


References:

  1. https://joe.bioscientifica.com/abstract/journals/joe/52/1/joe_52_1_005.xml
  2. https://www.mazemenshealth.com/premature-ejaculation/
  3. https://examine.com/articles/does-ejaculation-affect-testosterone-levels/
  4. https://www.everlywell.com/blog/testosterone/testosterone-weight-loss
  5. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322647
  6. https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2021/apr/5-all-natural-ways-to-boost-your-testosterone/
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About The Author

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
James Cunningham, BSc, CPT holds a BSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science from University of Hertfordshire. He's a Health & Performance Coach from London that brings a unique blend of academic knowledge of health supplements and practical exercise experience to the table for his readers.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Kristy June Dayanan, BS, MD is an author with a BS degree from University of the Philippines and an MD from University of Perpetual Help System. Her ability to simplify medical science complexities and dietary supplement jargon for the average reader makes her a valued medical fact checker and reviewer.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Dr. Harshi Dhingra, MBBS, MD is a published peer-reviewed author and renowned physician from India with over a decade of experience. With her MBBS from Bharati Vidyapeeth and an MD from Rajiv Gandhi University, she actively ensures the accuracy of online dietary supplement and medical information by reviewing and fact-checking health publications.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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