Medications · FAQ
How does testosterone therapy affect sperm production and fertility?
Short answer
Testosterone therapy can reduce sperm production, sometimes to very low levels, and may make it harder to cause a pregnancy. Results vary. It is not reliable birth control. Tell your physician before starting if you want children now or in the future, since other treatment options may be needed.
Taking testosterone from outside the body can turn down the brain signals that tell the testicles to make testosterone and sperm. Sperm counts may fall sharply, and the testicles may become smaller. Results vary. This can happen even when sex drive or sexual function feels normal.
Testosterone is not a fertility treatment and should not be used as birth control. Pregnancy can still occur. If you and your partner are trying to conceive, or may want children later, discuss this before the first dose. Your physician may recommend a fertility specialist, semen testing, or sperm banking based on your situation.
Sperm production may recover after testosterone is stopped, but recovery can take months or longer and is not guaranteed. Results vary. The time needed depends on factors such as prior fertility, treatment length, and the reason testosterone was low.
Do not add hormones, supplements, or fertility medicines on your own. A licensed physician should help choose a plan that takes both hormone symptoms and family goals into account.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.
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