Is It Normal for Testicles to Shrink After Ejaculation, and How Does Testosterone Affect This?

Reviewed by Garrett Kneese, MD, MPH

Family Medicine

It is normal for the testicles to feel a little smaller right after ejaculation, and this temporary change is different from the long-term effects of testosterone on testicular size and function.

Explanation

After ejaculation, some men notice that their testicles seem a bit smaller or less swollen. This can happen because, during arousal and ejaculation, there is increased blood flow and later a return to normal circulation, which may change how the testicles feel. These short-term changes are normal and do not mean there is a long-lasting effect. Testosterone, the hormone made in the testicles, is important for keeping the testicles healthy, helping them to produce sperm, and supporting overall male development. The research we have focuses more on long-term testicular health and hormone balance rather than quick changes seen right after ejaculation. In studies about male hypogonadism or testicular conditions, testosterone is shown to influence testicular function over time rather than causing immediate shrinking. If you notice any ongoing pain or significant changes, it is a good idea to talk with your doctor. Remember, everyday changes like these after ejaculation are usually normal and part of how the body naturally adjusts after sexual activity.

(References)

Aggarwal D, Parmar K, Sharma AP, Tyagi S, Kumar S, Singh SK, Gupta S. Long-term impact of testicular torsion and its salvage on semen parameters and gonadal function. Indian J Urol. 2022 Apr-Jun;38(2):135-139. doi: 10.4103/iju.iju_328_21. Epub 2022 Apr 1. PMID: 35400863; PMCID: PMC8992720.
Sizar O, Leslie SW, Schwartz J. Male Hypogonadism. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532933/
Sharma A, Minhas S, Dhillo WS, Jayasena CN. Male infertility due to testicular disorders. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Jan 23;106(2):e442-e459. doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa781. PMID: 33295608; PMCID: PMC7823320.
Kohestani Y, Kohestani B, Shirmohamadi Z, Faghani M. Effect of tamsulosin on testis histopathology and serum hormones in adult rats: Experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed. 2020 Jul 22;18(7):531-538. doi: 10.18502/ijrm.v13i7.7370. PMID: 32803117; PMCID: PMC7385916.

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