Does Edging Increase Testosterone? Everything You Need To Know Before Tying It Out

Edging—it’s more than just a term thrown around on forums. If you’ve come across claims that it can help ramp up testosterone levels, you’re not alone. The idea sounds interesting, but is there any science behind it?

One particularly interesting study by Zhejiang University examined the relationship between ejaculation frequency and testosterone levels [1]. The researchers found abstaining from ejaculation for about seven days resulted in a t-level peak—reaching 145.7% of baseline levels.

This article answers the question, “Does edging increase testosterone?” while examining the data to explore the potential relationship between testosterone and sexual practices like edging.

What Is Edging?

Edging, at its core, is a practice that involves intentionally delaying orgasm, stopping just before reaching the peak, and then starting again. It’s also referred to as the “start-stop method.”

But what’s the point of stopping yourself from crossing the metaphorical finish line? For some, it’s about enhancing the pleasure during intimacy. For others, it’s tied to claims of physical or mental benefits, like better stamina or an increase in testosterone levels.

The process itself is pretty straightforward. You build up arousal, slow down, let the excitement subside a bit, and then repeat. It’s not a new concept either; people have been exploring the boundaries of control and pleasure for ages. But modern conversations have linked it to more physiological benefits like hormonal boosts.

Still, edging isn’t for everyone. Mastering the practice requires patience, focus, and self-awareness. If done right, some swear by its ability to improve their sexual experiences and, potentially, their health.

Does Edging Increase Testosterone Levels?

You may be wondering, “Does edging increase testosterone?” We can apply research studies to the concept of the hormonal effects of edging. One particularly interesting study by Zhejiang University examined the relationship between ejaculation frequency and testosterone levels [1]. The researchers found abstaining from ejaculation for about seven days resulted in a t-level peak—reaching 145.7% of baseline levels.

So, why does this matter? For proponents of edging, it fuels the theory that delaying climax could tap into the same hormonal rhythms highlighted by this research. Can edging raise testosterone levels? While edging itself wasn’t explicitly named in these early studies, the concept of boosts in testosterone levels after abstinence vs. edging may line up.

In theory, by stopping short of ejaculation repeatedly, people might mimic the patterns researchers found in their participants. This could optimize hormone levels over time.

Does Edging Increase Sperm Count?

You may be wondering, “Does edging affect sperm count?” The logic behind this idea is straightforward—if you’re holding back ejaculation, could it mean more sperm when the moment finally comes?

A review from The International Journal of Fertility & Sterility analyzed the relationship between abstinence duration and semen retention [2]. Researchers found that short-term abstinence—between 2 to 7 days—can increase sperm concentration volume. Abstaining beyond this window, the benefits plateaued, while longer durations showed a decline.

Where does edging fit in? Technically, it’s not abstinence in the traditional sense, as ejaculation is still happening. And though the review doesn’t explicitly address edging, its conclusion suggests that short-term delays before ejaculation—if they extend to total abstinence—could contribute to marginally higher sperm counts.

In short, edging isn’t directly tied to increased sperm count. The determining factor seems to be the overall length of time between ejaculations, not the act of delaying the climax itself.

Does Edging Increase Load Size?

Load size is similar to the relationship between edging and sperm count—that orgasm control allows your body to accumulate more seminal fluid. Research backs this up, with one study finding that ejaculate volume can increase with short periods of abstinence, usually between 2 to 5 days [3].

Since edging involves prolonged arousal without immediate release, it might create a similar build-up. But the difference is probably minor because your body produces seminal fluid quickly. So, edging may increase load volume, but it isn’t too significant.

Does Edging Increase Stamina?

Edging is primarily used to improve sexual stamina and endurance. By practicing control over the timing of an orgasm, you may learn to last longer during intimate moments. But is this backed by scientific research?

In a study breaking down treatment strategies for premature ejaculation, research suggests techniques like edging can reduce issues like premature ejaculation (PE). The study found that the technique had a high rate of managing PE, though the long-term success rates dropped significantly—from 65% to 25% [4].

Is Edging Bad?

The idea of edging might make some people wonder—could repeatedly stopping yourself from finishing cause any harm? The short answer is that it depends on how you approach it. For most, edging is safe and can even enhance pleasure and build stamina. But, like anything, it’s all about moderation and understanding your body.

One potential downside is frustration. Constantly interrupting your body’s natural rhythm might leave you feeling more stressed than satisfied. Over time, this can lead to performance anxiety or even a less enjoyable experience during intimate moments.

And if you’re prone to prostate health issues, you may want to avoid edging altogether. Prolonged arousal without ejaculation has raised concerns about potential discomfort or inflammation in the prostate [5].

Another factor to consider is the unrealistic expectations you may be setting. If edging becomes too much of a focus—or if you’re using it in hopes of dramatically boosting testosterone without solid evidence, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment. While there’s some buzz around the testosterone boost with edging, studies are far from conclusive.

In short, edging isn’t inherently bad. Just listen to your body, stay in tune with how you feel, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a doctor if you notice any discomfort. Like most things in life, balance is key.

What Are the Benefits of Edging?

Are there real edging benefits for men’s health? The practice is often praised for its potential perks, both in and out of the bedroom. By hitting pause just before climax and then resuming, people claim this can unlock a range of physical and mental benefits. Let’s look at some whole-body and sexual health benefits:

• Improved Sexual Stamina: By learning to control your arousal and delaying orgasm, you can condition your body to last longer during sex.

• Enhanced Pleasure: Edging can also make the eventual climax more intense. How? It’s all about the build-up. When you repeatedly bring yourself close to orgasm without finishing, the anticipation creates a heightened sense of pleasure.

• Potential Testosterone Boost: Does edging affect testosterone? While the direct link between edging and testosterone levels remains unclear, the delayed release may mimic some hormonal patterns associated with abstinence.

• Larger Ejaculate Volume: Edging may contribute to a slight improvement in “load size.”

• Better Arousal Control: Edging is mostly about mindfulness—being in tune with your body and learning to control your responses. Over time, this practice can improve your confidence and reduce performance anxiety.

How to Practice Edging

Edging might sound straightforward—delaying climax—but like any skill, it takes practice to master. Let’s go through some of the most common methods that help you build control and improve your experiences.

Stop-Start Method

This classic technique is as simple as it sounds. When you feel yourself nearing the “edge,” so to speak, stop all stimulation and wait until the sensation subsides. Once you’ve regained control, start again.

The key here is mindfulness. Pay attention to your body and learn to recognize the signals that mean you’re close to climax. Over time, this method can help you build stamina and control, whether during solo play or intimacy with your partner.

Squeeze Method

The squeeze method takes a more hands-on approach—literally. As you near climax, apply gentle pressure to the base of the penis or just below the head, depending on what feels most effective. This action helps to interrupt the building of tension and gives you time to reset.

Though this technique can feel a little awkward at first, it has worked well for many looking to master their arousal response. Just make sure to adjust the pressure to avoid hurting yourself—this is about control, not pain.

Ballooning Method

Ballooning is an exploration of sensations without directly focusing on the most sensitive areas. Instead of rushing to climax, experiment with gentle stimulation of other parts of your body—thighs, stomach, or even lightly teasing areas near but not on the genitals.

This method not only helps prolong your experience but also teaches you to spread pleasure throughout your body. It’s a fantastic way to slow down, savor the moment, and explore new ways to experience intimacy.

How to Edge During Masturbation

Edging during solo play is a great way to experiment without any mental pressure. Start by using one of the techniques above—the stop-start and squeeze methods are especially effective. Pay attention to your body’s signals and try to find the perfect balance between stimulation and control.

This is your time to practice, so don’t be afraid to experiment with pacing, techniques, or even different types of stimulation.

How to Edge During Sex

Edging with a partner adds a whole new layer of complexity—and fun. Communication is crucial here; let your partner know what you’re trying and why. Use the stop-start method by pausing movements when you feel yourself getting too close or shifting focus to less sensitive areas.

If you’re comfortable, invite your partner to join in the process. They can help slow things down, switch positions, or explore other techniques to keep things under control. The shared experience can deepen intimacy and add an exciting dynamic to your relationship.

Other Natural Ways to Boost Testosterone Production

If trying to manipulate testosterone levels is too much of a gamble, you should learn how to increase testosterone naturally. We’ll break down some ways you can address low testosterone levels and the common ways that cause the drop.

Manage Chronic Stress

Stress is like kryptonite for testosterone. When you’re constantly stressed, your body automatically has an endocrine response to it by pumping out cortisol—a hormone that, while helpful in short bursts, can suppress testosterone [6].

Incorporating stress-relief habits, like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or taking a break to engage in hobbies you love, can work as viable natural testosterone enhancement methods. Studies have found that mindfulness techniques help with cortisol reduction, improving hormone balance [7].

Participate in Regular Physical Activities

There’s no denying it—exercise is a testosterone booster. Strength training, in particular, is known to increase testosterone levels. Researchers found that resistance training significantly raised testosterone levels in both the short and long term [8].

Get Enough Sleep

Your body produces most of its testosterone while you’re sleeping, so skimping on rest can seriously deprive your body of this important hormone. For example, one study found that men who slept less than 5 hours a night saw a significant drop in testosterone [9]. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol Intake

A night out with a drink or 2 isn’t an issue—excessive, long-term alcohol use, though, greatly affects testosterone. Studies show that heavy drinking reduces testosterone, so moderation is key [10].

Eat a Healthy, Nutritious Diet

A diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and veggies provides the nutrients your body needs to optimize testosterone production. Avoid crash diets or overly restrictive eating plans—these can tank your hormone levels.

Take Dietary Supplements

Certain supplements can support testosterone when paired with a healthy lifestyle. There are tons of nutrients and vitamins that are essential for hormone regulation. If you aren’t getting enough of one, that may completely throw off your hormone balance.

Dietary supplements provide the essential daily minimums for nutrients and ingredients like zinc, magnesium, D-aspartic acid, and more. This supplementation should help cover any deficiencies that may lead to a drop in testosterone levels. If you’re worried about your hormone levels it may be best to speak to your doctor about testosterone replacement therapy such as Maximius TRT.

Best Dietary Supplement to Increase Testosterone

If you’re disappointed by your testosterone levels, have tried all methods to boost it naturally, or want a boost in the gym, supplements may be necessary. We’ve compiled a list of 4 of the best testosterone boosters on the market.

1. TestoPrime

TestoPrime is our top pick for natural testosterone-boosting supplements. It’s designed to tackle common issues like low energy, stubborn weight gain, and the frustrating drop in muscle strength that often comes with declining testosterone levels. This top rated testosterone booster works by boosting your body’s natural T-production while reducing cortisol—the stress hormone.

The secret to its effectiveness is its ingredient lineup. Take D-aspartic acid, for example—it’s known for stimulating luteinizing hormone (LH), which kicks your testosterone production into gear [11]. Ashwagandha extract is an adaptogen that helps keep cortisol in check while also improving energy levels and muscle recovery, and it may even help you improve your sleep quality [12].

2. Testosil

Testosil is packed with natural ingredients and aims to support healthy testosterone production, enhance libido, and boost energy levels. It is backed by scientific proof and contains ingredients like D-aspartic acid and Panax Ginseng.

Testosil contains Ashwagandha as KSM-66®, which may help increase testosterone levels. It is also your gym buddy, as it may help soothe those post-workout muscle aches so you can bounce back quicker. Plus, this supplement can elevate your metabolism, making it easier to shed those extra pounds at rest.

3. Testo-Max

Testo-Max is designed to boost testosterone if you’re looking to improve your gym performance, build muscle, and speed up recovery. Its carefully chosen ingredients target energy, endurance, and hormonal balance.

One of Testo-Max’s standout ingredients is D-aspartic acid, which is included at a huge dose of 2,352 mg per serving, and Fenugreek Extract. It also includes Korean Red Ginseng to round out the formula by boosting energy levels and sharpening focus—two areas where low testosterone often wreaks havoc [17].

4. Testogen

Looking to reclaim your energy, focus, and muscle-building potential? Testogen is designed to give your body a nudge in natural testosterone production while also addressing common blockers like stress and fatigue.

Its main ingredients? First up is D-aspartic acid, a must-have for many testosterone boosters. Then there’s Fenugreek Extract, a natural herb known not just for its testosterone-supporting properties but also for its ability to boost libido and energy levels [20]. These ingredients, plus ten others included in the formula, make this a one-stop shop for boosting overall vitality.

FAQs on the Effects of Edging on Testosterone

You may have other questions about the effects of edging that we haven’t addressed. Let’s take a look at some of the most common.

Does Edging Increase Testosterone Immediately?

Not really—there’s no direct evidence that edging causes an instant spike in testosterone. It might mimic the effect of short-term abstinence, but the results take time.

How Often Should I Practice Edging?

There’s no set rule. Start with once or twice a week to see how your body responds. Balance is key—too much edging might lead to frustration.

Are There Specific Techniques for Effective Edging?

Yes! The stop-start, squeeze, and ballooning methods are popular. Experiment to find out what works best for you.

Can Edging Improve My Workout Performance?

Potentially. Some people claim it enhances focus and energy, but it’s not a magic fix. Pair it with good sleep, nutrition, and natural steroids for real gains.

Is There a Difference Between Edging and Semen Retention?

Yes. Edging involves delaying climax but eventually ejaculating, while semen retention focuses on avoiding ejaculation altogether.

Does Edging Increase Estrogen?

No. Edging doesn’t directly increase estrogen. Its primary hormonal effects, if any, are boosted testosterone levels after edging.

Does Edging Make You Lose Testosterone?

No. It doesn’t lower testosterone. However, frequent ejaculation without proper recovery could temporarily affect testosterone levels.

Does Edging Affect Muscle Growth?

Edging is unlikely to have a direct impact. While testosterone is important for muscle growth, edging alone isn’t enough to significantly influence gains. Resistance training, progressive overload, and bulking supplements can help you with muscle growth.

Does Edging Cause Prostate Cancer?

There’s no evidence that edging increases prostate cancer risk. In fact, regular ejaculation is often linked to better prostate health.

Final Thoughts: Does Edging Increase Testosterone?

Edging and testosterone are intriguing connections but not fully studied or proven. While edging might mimic some benefits of short-term abstinence, the science is still catching up. If you’re still curious about the benefits of edging in testosterone increase or other benefits mentioned in this article, it’s worth experimenting to see how it fits your lifestyle.

But following the other suggestions in our guide, like adding a natural T booster such as TestoPrime to your routine, can really help you boost your testosterone levels.

References:

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2. Ayad, B. M., Horst, G. V., & Plessis, S. S. D. (2018). Revisiting The Relationship between The Ejaculatory Abstinence Period and Semen Characteristics. International journal of fertility & sterility, 11(4), 238–246. https://doi.org/10.22074/ijfs.2018.5192

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This article appears in Nov 20 – Dec 3, 2024.