Written on October 9, 2025 by Gillian (Gigi) Singer, MPH. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.

Table of contents

• Overview
• What Testosterone Is and Why It Matters
• Short-Term Testosterone Spikes After Sex
• The Bidirectional Relationship: Sex and Testosterone
• Other Key Factors That Affect Testosterone
• Bottom Line Summary
• FAQs
• How Everlywell Can Help
• References

Does Sex Increase Testosterone? What the Science Really Says

It's a common belief: having sex boosts testosterone. But is it true? Let's explore what science says about sexual activity, orgasms, and how they affect testosterone both in the short and long term.

What Testosterone Is and Why It Matters

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. Among its many functions, it regulates libido, sperm production, muscle strength, energy, mood, and erectile function.^[1] Levels rise during adolescence and gradually decline with age, often influenced by lifestyle, stress, and sleep quality.^[2] Understanding whether sex boosts testosterone is relevant for men looking to optimize performance, energy, or fertility.

Short-Term Testosterone Spikes After Sex

Orgasm and Acute Testosterone Changes

Studies measuring men's hormone levels before and after orgasm show mixed results:

• A 2001 German study found no immediate change in testosterone after masturbation-induced orgasm, but a noticeable increase in baseline testosterone following three weeks of abstinence.^[2]
• A 2021 follow-up confirmed that total testosterone did not significantly change within the first hour post-orgasm, even during arousal and sexual stimulation.^[3]

Thus, while orgasm boosts other hormones like prolactin and oxytocin, testosterone doesn't spike acutely during sex.^[3]

How Long Do Changes Last?

Any elevated testosterone after a period of abstinence tends to normalize within days.^[2,4]

The Bidirectional Relationship: Sex and Testosterone

• Testosterone influences libido. Low levels often lead to reduced sex drive, erectile issues, and fatigue.^[1]
• Sexual activity reflects overall health. If you feel well and have a healthy relationship, you may be more likely to maintain an active sex life.

Having enough testosterone sets the stage for sex, but sex doesn't significantly elevate it past baseline. Think of it this way: sex may reflect a healthy testosterone baseline, but it doesn't raise it significantly.

Other Key Factors That Affect Testosterone

Stress and Sleep

High cortisol from stress or poor sleep is associated with lower testosterone.^[5] Rest and recovery matter more than you may think.

Age Differences

Sexual function and testosterone levels progressively decline in aging men.^[1]

Relationship Status

Men in stable, long-term partnerships may not spike testosterone during sex due to reduced mate-competition responses—unlike single men or men meeting new partners.^[6]

Testosterone Therapy

For men with clinically low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be recommended. For some, lifestyle changes cannot substitute for the benefits of medical treatment.

TRT administered via gels, injections, or patches can improve sexual function and libido. TRT must be carefully prescribed and monitored, especially because the cardiovascular safety profile of TRT remains debated.^[1]

Bottom Line Summary

FAQs: Common Questions About Sex and Testosterone

• Does having sex increase testosterone? No studies show a significant immediate increase after sex. It’s possible in the very short term, but sex doesn't have a lasting impact on baseline levels.^[1]
• Does frequent sex maintain high testosterone? Frequent sex does not consistently maintain high testosterone levels, but sexual activity and desire are closely interlinked with testosterone levels.^[1]
• Does orgasm raise testosterone more than arousal? Testosterone levels tend to rise in response to sexual arousal and stimuli. However, orgasm itself does not consistently cause a significant or greater increase compared to arousal.^[1]
• Can sex replace testosterone therapy? No. TRT delivers therapeutic levels that sex alone cannot.^[1]

How Everlywell Can Help

If you're concerned about low testosterone, consider an at-home test and consult your provider.

Curious if your testosterone level is supporting your energy, sex drive, or overall well-being? Everlywell offers a convenient at-home Testosterone Test and Men’s Health Test that are both easy to use and doctor reviewed. Know your numbers—empower your health journey with insight and clarity.

References

1. Corona G, Maggi M. The role of testosterone in male sexual function. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2022;23(6):1159-1172. doi:10.1007/s11154-022-09748-3
2. Exton MS, Krüger TH, Bursch N, et al. Endocrine response to masturbation-induced orgasm in healthy men following a 3-week sexual abstinence. World J Urol. 2001;19(5):377-382. doi:10.1007/s003450100222
3. Isenmann E, Schumann M, Notbohm HL, Flenker U, Zimmer P. Hormonal response after masturbation in young healthy men - a randomized controlled cross-over pilot study. Basic Clin Androl. 2021;31(1):32. doi:10.1186/s12610-021-00148-2
4. Krüger T, Exton MS, Pawlak C, von zur Mühlen A, Hartmann U, Schedlowski M. Neuroendocrine and cardiovascular response to sexual arousal and orgasm in men. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 1998;23(4):401-411. doi:10.1016/S0306-4530(98)00007-9
5. Liu PY, Reddy RT. Sleep, testosterone and cortisol balance, and ageing men. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2022;23(6):1323-1339. doi:10.1007/s11154-022-09755-4
6. van Anders SM, Watson NV. Testosterone levels in women and men who are single, in long-distance relationships, or same-city relationships. Horm Behav. 2007;51(2):286-291. doi:10.1016/j.yhbeh.2006.11.005