Endocrine control of ejaculation

Abstract

Oxytocin (OT) is actively involved in regulating orgasm and ejaculation via peripheral, central or even spinal mechanisms. Estrogens regulate epididymal motility tuning up contractile hormones and local peptide responsiveness by increasing RhoA/Rho-kinase signalling and therefore calcium sensitivity. Testosterone might have both a central and peripheral action on the ejaculatory process. An association between delayed ejaculation (DE) and premature ejaculation (PE) and hypo- and hyperthyroidism, respectively, have been extensively documented, even in animal models. Hence, although endocrine regulation of the ejaculatory reflex is still in its infancy, recent data indicate that is growing rapidly, shedding light on frequently occurring and seldom studied conditions such as ejaculatory disturbances. Endocrine therapies are widely available and very effective in treating the cognate underlying conditions. It is possible that endocrine therapy of ejaculatory disorders, whenever indicated, not only ameliorates sexual life but also the overall health of our patients, as could be the case for thyroid or testis disorders.