Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
11:51
Combining Behavioral Endocrinology and Experimental Economics: Testosterone and Social Decision Making
Published on: March 2, 2011
The relationship between testosterone and sexual function in depressed and healthy men
Sakina J Rizvi1, Sidney H Kennedy, Lakshmi N Ravindran
1University Health Network, Department of Psychiatry, Toronto, Canada.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|October 3, 2009
Summary
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) significantly impacts male sexual function more than low testosterone levels. Depression is a primary predictor of sexual dysfunction, affecting desire and orgasm.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
- Sexual Medicine
Background:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is associated with high rates of sexual dysfunction in men.
- Low testosterone levels in males also correlate with sexual dysfunction.
- The interplay between MDD and testosterone in sexual function requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of depression and low testosterone on male sexual function.
- To compare sexual function in men with MDD versus healthy controls.
- To identify key predictors of sexual dysfunction in men.
Main Methods:
- Recruited untreated males with MDD (N=44) and age-matched healthy controls (N=50).
- Measured morning total testosterone (TT) and bioavailable testosterone (BT) levels.
- Assessed depressive symptoms using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression-17 item (HAMD-17) and sexual function via the Sex Effects (SexFX) Scale.
Main Results:
- Hypogonadism prevalence was 27.9% by TT and 19.3% by BT criteria.
- Men with MDD and hypogonadism reported lower sexual function across all domains compared to controls.
- Depression status was the primary predictor of sexual dysfunction, outranking hypogonadal status and age.
Conclusions:
- MDD is a stronger predictor of sexual dysfunction than testosterone levels.
- Depression significantly impacts sexual function, particularly desire and orgasm.
- Clinical focus on managing depression may improve sexual outcomes in affected men.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
The intricate hormonal interplay essential for male reproductive health begins with the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamus. This hormone prompts the pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). LH targets the Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating them to produce and release testosterone. In concert with testosterone, FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules to facilitate the release of...
01:20Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Men's health issues are increasingly recognized as significant, with several conditions posing common threats. Among these, testicular cancer is especially prevalent in younger men, particularly those aged 20 to 35 years. The disease often manifests as a painless mass in the testicles, sometimes accompanied by a sensation of heaviness or a dull ache.
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
01:27Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia
Depressive disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by pervasive feelings of sadness, diminished pleasure in life, and a significant impact on daily functioning. These conditions are most prevalent in individuals during their 30s and affect women at twice the rate of men. Contrary to popular belief, younger individuals are generally more susceptible to these disorders than older adults. Two key types of depressive disorders include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and...
01:27Major Hormones and Their Functions
Hormones, the biochemical messengers produced by endocrine glands, are pivotal in regulating bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. Each hormone's balance is crucial; imbalances can lead to significant physiological disruptions. Major hormones include oxytocin, cortisol, epinephrine, estrogen, testosterone, thyroxine, growth hormone, insulin, and glucagon.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
01:28Menopause
Menopause, a natural biological process marking the end of a woman's fertility, typically occurs between the fifth and sixth decade of life. This phase is characterized by the exhaustion of the ovarian follicle pool, leading to less responsive ovaries despite the high levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). The consequential decrease in estrogen production results in symptoms like hot flashes, heavy sweating, headaches, hair loss, muscle pains, vaginal...