Do you ever feel like your mojo’s missing? Like there’s something lacking but you just can’t quite put your finger on it?

There’s a lot that could be causing your engine not to rev properly, so to speak. If you’re curious at all about what’s going on under the hood, keep reading. You may be taking a step toward figuring out what may not be working properly, and learning how to get it back and improve it.

And as with any Zander Holt materials, we hope that the information in this article is a leap toward a better you, not just a step.

The idea of hormones may be a little abstract at first. What are they and what exactly do they do?

Well they act as chemical messengers in our bodies. They’re the unsung heroes (or sometimes villains) behind your sex drive, muscle mass, and even your mood. Whether you’re in your roaring twenties or your distinguished fifties, understanding your hormones can be a game-changer for your sexual health and overall wellbeing.

So, let’s cut through the confusion and get to the meat of what these hormones are, what they do, and how you can keep them in check for peak performance in and out of the bedroom.

Key Hormones

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays a vital role in sexual function

It is responsible for:

Regulating sex drive (libido)
Supporting erectile function
Promoting muscle mass and strength
Maintaining bone density
Facilitating sperm production

Testosterone is primarily produced in the testicles, with small amounts also produced by the adrenal glands

For more information on this, check out our blog post for raising testosterone naturally!

While typically associated with female sexual health, estrogen also plays a role in male sexual function. A small amount of testosterone is converted to estradiol, a form of estrogen, in men’s bodies. Estrogen contributes to:

Sexual desire
Bone health
Fat distribution

However, elevated estrogen levels may inhibit erectile function.

Thyroid hormones, produced by the thyroid gland, can significantly impact sexual function. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can lead to:

Erectile dysfunction (in both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism)
Premature ejaculation (associated with hyperthyroidism)
Delayed ejaculation (associated with hypothyroidism)

Prolactin, produced by the pituitary gland, can affect sexual function when levels are abnormally high (hyperprolactinemia). Elevated prolactin levels may cause:

Erectile dysfunction
Reduced sexual desire
Fertility issues

Cortisol, often called the “stress hormone,” plays a significant role in men’s sexual health and overall well-being.

While cortisol is essential for many bodily functions, chronically elevated levels can negatively affect men’s sexual health:

Decreased libido: High cortisol levels can suppress testosterone production, leading to reduced sex drive.
Erectile dysfunction: Stress and elevated cortisol can contribute to difficulties achieving or maintaining erections.
Fertility issues: Prolonged stress and high cortisol levels may impact sperm production and quality.

Oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone” or “cuddle hormone,” plays a crucial role in bonding, social interactions, and sexual behavior.

Oxytocin has several positive effects on men’s sexual health:

Enhanced arousal: Oxytocin levels increase during sexual arousal, contributing to erection and orgasm.
Improved sexual satisfaction: Higher oxytocin levels are associated with greater sexual satisfaction and emotional intimacy.
Stress reduction: Oxytocin can help counteract the effects of stress, potentially improving sexual function.

Xeno-Estrogens

Xeno-estrogens are synthetic or naturally occurring compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. These endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with the normal functioning of the hormonal system, potentially leading to various health issues.

Sources of Xeno-Estrogens

Xeno-estrogens are ubiquitous in our modern environment, found in:

Plastics (e.g., BPA in food containers and water bottles)
Pesticides and herbicides used in agriculture
Personal care products (e.g., parabens in cosmetics)
Industrial chemicals (e.g., PCBs and phthalates)
Some food additives and preservatives

Health Impacts

Exposure to xeno-estrogens has been associated with several health concerns:

Reproductive issues in both men and women
Increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, prostate)
Developmental problems in children
Thyroid dysfunction
Obesity and metabolic disorders

Mechanisms of Action

Xeno-estrogens can disrupt hormonal balance through various mechanisms:

Binding to estrogen receptors, mimicking natural estrogen
Blocking hormone receptors, preventing natural hormones from binding
Interfering with hormone production, metabolism, or elimination

Hormone Imbalances and Sexual Dysfunction

Hormonal imbalances can lead to various sexual health issues in men:

Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism): Can result in decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced muscle mass.
Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can negatively impact sexual function.
Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated prolactin levels can cause erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual desire.

Improving Hormone Balance

To maintain or improve hormone balance for optimal sexual health, consider the following strategies:

Lifestyle Modifications

Exercise regularly

Engage in both aerobic and resistance training to support testosterone production and overall health.

Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly affecting testosterone levels.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can disrupt hormone production. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.

Get Adequate Sleep

Poor sleep can negatively impact hormone levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

Limit alcohol consumption

Excessive alcohol intake can disrupt hormone production and sexual function.

Dietary Considerations

Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Check out our blog post on naturally raising libido with foods here!
Consume zinc-rich foods: Zinc is important for testosterone production. Good sources include oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
Include healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds can support hormone production.
Consider vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D levels are associated with higher testosterone levels.

Wrapping Up

Hormones play a critical role in men’s sexual health, influencing libido, erectile function, and overall sexual well-being.

Maintaining hormonal balance through lifestyle modifications, proper nutrition, and medical interventions when necessary can help men optimize their sexual health and address potential issues.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options if experiencing sexual health concerns.

References

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

Corona G, Maggi M. The role of testosterone in male sexual function. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2022 Dec;23(6):1159-1172. doi: 10.1007/s11154-022-09748-3. Epub 2022 Aug 23. PMID: 35999483; PMCID: PMC9789013.

Barbonetti, A. Hormones and sexuality: navigating the complex terrain of the interplay between endocrinology and sexual function. Int J Impot Res 36, 303–304 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-024-00904-8

“Five Main Hormones for Men’s Health.” Medichecks, www.medichecks.com/blogs/mens-health/five-main-hormones-for-mens-health. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.

Słomczyńska M. Xenoestrogens: mechanisms of action and some detection studies. Pol J Vet Sci. 2008;11(3):263-9. PMID: 18942551.

“Testosterone – What It Does and Doesn’t Do.” Harvard Health, 22 June 2023, www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/testosterone–what-it-does-and-doesnt-do.

Hormone Harmony: The Hidden Connection to Men’s Sexual Health

Key Hormones