Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays a key role in sexual health, energy levels, muscle mass, and mood.
It’s common to hear conflicting claims about what affects testosterone levels, especially when it comes to masturbation.
The relationship between ejaculation and testosterone is complex, and often misunderstood.
Research shows that masturbation does not significantly lower testosterone.
In fact, most studies indicate that the effect is either neutral or, at times, associated with temporary fluctuations that have little long-term consequence.
A 2021 study published in Basic and Clinical Andrology examined hormonal changes following masturbation and found that while free testosterone levels may remain slightly more stable after sexual activity, total testosterone remains largely unaffected.
This means your body’s usable testosterone doesn’t take a measurable hit after ejaculation.
It’s important to remember that testosterone fluctuates naturally throughout the day.
Levels tend to be highest in the early morning and vary depending on stress, sleep, and general health. Because of this, pinpointing the exact impact of any one activity—like masturbation—on testosterone is difficult.
Experts like Dr. James Hotaling, a urologist and male fertility specialist at the University of Utah, note that these minute-to-minute variations make it challenging to isolate the effect of sexual activity on overall hormone levels.
Even abstaining from ejaculation for extended periods doesn’t lead to dramatic increases in testosterone.
If you’re concerned about how masturbation may affect your health, it’s helpful to understand that sexual activity—including solo sex—is linked with several positive outcomes.
Regular ejaculation may contribute to lower stress levels, improved sleep, and even a reduced risk of prostate cancer, as highlighted in a study published in European Urology
However, if you’re experiencing changes in sexual desire, energy, or performance, it’s worth considering whether your testosterone levels may be low.
Signs of low T can include decreased libido, difficulty with erections, fatigue, or changes in mood.
JD Golon, PA-C, a physician assistant at Rush University Medical Group, emphasizes that sexual function is often a reflection of overall health.
Low testosterone is just one potential cause of symptoms and should be evaluated in the context of other lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress, diet, and exercise.
Testing for testosterone is usually done in the morning when levels are most stable.
According to Dr. Brian McNeil, chief of urology at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, ejaculating shortly before a blood draw may result in a slight, short-lived hormone shift, but it’s unlikely to skew results in any meaningful way.
When in doubt, talk to your doctor.
They can order a blood test to check your testosterone levels and explore whether treatment, such as testosterone replacement therapy, is appropriate.
It’s also important to consider fertility goals, as hormone therapy can affect sperm production.
These are the kinds of conversations that can lead to better health outcomes when approached openly with a trusted medical provider.
In short, masturbation is a normal and healthy part of sexual behavior and has little to no lasting effect on testosterone levels.
Understanding the full picture of your health, including your hormone balance, is about more than just one habit—it’s about how all the pieces of your lifestyle and wellbeing come together.