Does ejaculation affect testosterone levels?

What happens biochemically when a man orgasms?

During abstinence, serum testosterone levels are higher (3 weeks in cited study). There have also been non-significant increases in Luteinizing Hormone. When the difference between abstinence and non-abstinence is averaged out, it looks to be around 0.5ng/ml.

Although abstinence results in increased testosterone levels, orgasm has no effect on testosterone levels in the blood. Although there is little evidence supporting the increase in testosterone during abstinence, there does not appear to be any data against it at this time; it is a little researched issue.

Orgasm can result in a substantial increase in prolactin levels (about 10 to 15ng/ml) that lasts for 10 to 20 minutes before starting to drop. This surge is only seen after ejaculation and not during non-orgasmic arousal. This increase may act as a deterrent to subsequent sexual urges.

During sex/masturbation and orgasm, many cardiovascular indicators such as heart rate and catecholamine (adrenaline, noradrenaline) levels are raised. During arousal, there is an increase in several ways.

Vasopressin and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) are two more indicators that haven’t altered.

When comparing orgasm after abstinence to orgasm without abstinence, biochemical indicators do not change much. Heart rate and catecholamine (adrenaline) levels increased somewhat, although this might be attributed to self-reported higher arousal on average.

How is testosterone related to orgasm?

Testosterone, like dopamine, has little interactions with orgasm, although it is thought to be a positive regulator of sexual desire or libido. Agents that boost dopamine levels or mimic dopamine can boost erection frequency and subjective sexual excitement. Prolactin, on the other hand, acts as a suppressor of sexual desire.

Serotonin and Nitric Oxide, as well as different mechanical contractions in the pelvic and penile area, are involved in the actual ejaculatory and erection processes. Interfering with serotonin reuptake using drugs or supplements (such as SSRIs) can decrease orgasm and may be beneficial in the treatment of premature ejaculation.

Bottom line

Your testosterone levels are unaffected by ejaculation.