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The Role of Hormones in Male Sexual Function

Current Sexual Health Reports volume 12, pages 101–112 (2020)Cite this article

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Male sexual dysfunction has many different causes and is often multifactorial in nature. We aim to review the effects that testosterone (T), estrogen, thyroid hormone, prolactin (PRL), and cortisol have on male sexual function.

Recent Findings

T deficiency can cause decreased libido and diminished erectile function. Estrogen is necessary for sexual drive but is postulated to inhibit erectile function when elevated. Hyperthyroidism is associated with premature ejaculation (PE), hypothyroidism is associated with delayed ejaculation (DE), and both are associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Hyperprolactinemia is associated with ED and can cause fertility issues. The role of corticosteroids is largely unknown.

Summary

While hormonal disorders can largely influence male sexual health, resolution of sexual dysfunction is achieved in most cases by normalization of hormone levels.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Ave, 8642, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA

    Brian Dick, Christopher Koller, Bryan Herzog, Jacob Greenberg & Wayne J. G. Hellstrom

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  5. Wayne J. G. Hellstrom
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Correspondence to Wayne J. G. Hellstrom.

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Dr. Hellstrom reports serving as consultant/advisor for Abbvie and on the speaker’s bureau for Endo. Dr. Greenberg, Dr. Koller, Dr. Herzog, and Dr. Dick each declare no conflicts of interest.

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Dick, B., Koller, C., Herzog, B. et al. The Role of Hormones in Male Sexual Function. Curr Sex Health Rep 12, 101–112 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-020-00271-7

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Keywords

  • Hormonal comorbidities
  • Male sexual health
  • Testosterone
  • Estrogen
  • Thyroid
  • Prolactin