Edging involves maintaining a high level of sexual arousal for an extended period while intentionally avoiding orgasm and ejaculation. This technique aims to prolong sexual pleasure and potentially intensify the eventual climax. Testosterone is the primary androgen in the male body, regulating a wide array of functions beyond reproduction. Many people wonder if delaying ejaculation impacts the body’s supply of this hormone, so scientific evidence can examine the relationship between this sustained state of arousal and circulating testosterone levels.
The Role of Testosterone in Sexual Function
Testosterone is a steroid hormone synthesized primarily in the testes, where it governs male development and maintains overall sexual health. Its functions include supporting libido, regulating energy levels, and influencing muscle and bone mass. This hormone’s production is controlled by a complex feedback system involving the brain and the testes, known as the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis.
The hypothalamus releases Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), which signals the pituitary gland to secrete Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). LH then travels to the testes, prompting the Leydig cells to produce testosterone. When testosterone levels become high, the hormone signals back to the brain to slow down GnRH and LH production, ensuring a stable hormonal environment.
Physiological State of Sustained Arousal
Edging prolongs the “plateau phase” of the human sexual response cycle, the stage immediately preceding orgasm. During this phase, the physiological changes initiated during arousal intensify. This includes a notable increase in heart rate, breathing rate, and systemic blood pressure.
The sustained tension involves myotonia, or increased muscle tension, throughout the body, particularly in the pelvic floor and extremities. Vasocongestion, the engorgement of blood vessels, is also maintained, causing the penis to remain fully erect and the testes to elevate. The sympathetic nervous system is highly active during this prolonged state, preparing the body for the energy release of orgasm that is purposefully held back.
Does Edging Cause Testosterone Loss or Gain
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that edging causes a significant or sustained loss of testosterone. The transient physical stress of sustained arousal does not alter the HPG axis’s regulatory function. The total circulating testosterone level remains stable throughout the period of extended arousal.
The misconception that delayed ejaculation “builds up” testosterone is also not supported by direct evidence. While some studies have observed a small, transient rise in testosterone after a period of sexual abstinence, these spikes are minor and return to baseline shortly after the abstinence period ends. This slight fluctuation is not clinically meaningful for overall health or sexual function.
The act of ejaculation itself does not cause an acute drop in testosterone levels. Testosterone’s primary role is to regulate libido and desire over time, not to fluctuate dramatically in response to a single sexual encounter.
Acute Hormonal Shifts Beyond Testosterone
While testosterone levels remain unaffected by edging, the sustained arousal state influences other neurochemicals and hormones. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation, steadily increases during the excitement and plateau phases, driving anticipation.
The delay of orgasm prevents the body from releasing Prolactin, a hormone that typically spikes immediately following ejaculation. This prolactin surge is responsible for the refractory period and the temporary suppression of sexual desire. By avoiding this spike, the ability to maintain arousal and re-enter the plateau phase is preserved.
The sustained physiological tension and elevated heart rate may lead to a temporary increase in stress hormones, such as cortisol. The body also releases Oxytocin and Endorphins during sexual activity, which contribute to feelings of bonding and well-being that are present even without climax.