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Prolactin and testosterone: their role in male sexual function
C Carani1, A R Granata, M F Fustini
1University of Modena, Italy.
International Journal of Andrology
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Androgens impact male sexual function, with severe hypogonadism impairing night erections. Hyperprolactinaemia affects libido psychologically, not directly impacting sexual responses.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Men's Health
- Sexual Medicine
Background:
- The precise role of androgens in male sexuality remains unclear.
- Hyperprolactinaemia in men often correlates with hypogonadism, leading to reduced libido and erectile dysfunction (ED).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of varying testosterone levels and hyperprolactinaemia on nocturnal penile erections and response to visual erotic stimuli (VES).
- To clarify the androgen-dependency of different aspects of male sexual function.
Main Methods:
- Studied 44 men, categorized into severe hypogonadism, mild hypogonadism, severe hyperprolactinaemia with mild hypogonadism, and a control group.
- Assessed night-sleep related erections and penile response to visual erotic stimuli (VES).
- Measured serum testosterone levels and monitored for hyperprolactinaemia.
Main Results:
- Severe hypogonadism significantly impaired night erections compared to other groups.
- No significant differences in night erections or VES response were found between mild hypogonadism, hyperprolactinaemia, and control groups.
- Penile response to VES was partially androgen-independent and not significantly affected by hyperprolactinaemia.
Conclusions:
- Nocturnal erections are androgen-dependent, with evidence suggesting two distinct testosterone thresholds affecting sexual function.
- Sexual behavior impairment may occur at a higher testosterone threshold than that affecting nocturnal erections.
- Hyperprolactinaemia's impact on libido appears primarily psychological, not directly affecting penile erectile function or nocturnal erections.