One of the popular trends currently is trying something called, “edging” for potential health benefits. Edging, as the term suggests, is the practice of bringing oneself as close to the metaphorical edge of climaxing or having an orgasm with out “going over” or actually having a climax of an orgasm. Stemming from notes of pushing oneself to as close as possible to the edge and then practicing severe discipline and self-control in order to further develop ones own capabilities and attain longer term health benefits. Here we will look at whether ending is actually good or bad for the body from a medical, biological, and scientific perspective and further discuss if it truly affects testosterone levels as claimed.
What Is Edging?
Edging is the sexual practice of bringing oneself as close as nearly possibly to climaxing without going over the peak (or “the edge”) and ejaculating. It is the intentional act of controlling arousal to prolong the sexual experience and delay orgasm.
Does Edging Increase Testosterone?
The scientific and medical literature on this topic is sparse. Which is not infrequent given that this intervention looks at the effects of a naturopathic method. Given that there is a lack of profitability from limited potential of trademark and patents, it is not unusual for the industry to not sponsor studies that look at these type of interventions for medical benefits. From basic science studies in biology and general medicine we do see the following:
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Temporary Testosterone Boost During Arousal Phase:
Sexual arousal and activity often cause short-term increases in testosterone. Edging prolongs the arousal phase, which may keep testosterone slightly elevated for longer periods during the activity. However, this temporary increase is unlikely to have a significant or lasting impact on overall testosterone levels. -
Orgasm and Testosterone Release:
Some studies suggest that orgasm might result in a slight dip in testosterone immediately after ejaculation, as the body enters a refractory period. Edging, by delaying orgasm, could theoretically prevent this temporary drop and maintain higher levels of testosterone during the session. -
Long-Term Testosterone Effects Are Unclear:
While there’s no conclusive evidence that edging leads to sustained increases in testosterone, its benefits may be more indirect. By improving sexual satisfaction and reducing stress, edging could positively influence testosterone levels over time, as stress and poor mental health are known to suppress testosterone production.
Is Edging Good or Bad for Testosterone?
Potential Benefits of Edging for Testosterone:
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Enhanced Sexual Health:
Edging can improve sexual stamina and control, potentially leading to more satisfying sexual experiences, which may reduce stress—a factor linked to low testosterone levels. -
Reduced Post-Orgasm Fatigue:
By delaying ejaculation, edging might minimize the immediate dip in testosterone and energy levels that some people experience after orgasm. -
Boosts Confidence:
Mastering sexual control through edging can improve self-esteem, which has a positive correlation with hormonal balance and overall health.
Possible side effects and risks of edging
1. Mental stress: preoccupation with the thought of stopping ejaculation can cause some men to have increased stress which resultantly will increase cortisol levels within the body which is known to have downstream effects of decreasing testosterone levels, offsetting any potential benefits as previously discussed for increasing T levels.
2. Lack of research on any long term benefits: although not unusual for natural interventions, there have been no long term proven results for this practice.
3. Physical discomfort: stopping oneself from ejaculation after a man becomes very close physically the act can cause testicular pain from the shock of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activation, colloquially referred to as “blue balls.”
Tips on How to Safely Edge for Potential T Benefits
- Relax: Men's testosterone levels increase with decreased stress aka decreased cortisol levels within the body. Even with practicing edging, make it a stress free and fun experience to reduce that risk.
- Multi pronged approach: you can have far more benefit to increasing your T levels with diet and lifestyle modifications than with the practice of edging alone. Combine edging with regular exercise and proper sleep to exponentially boost your T.
- Know when to stop: there is healthy sexual stamina improvement and then there is your body telling you something is very wrong. Listen to your body physically and mentally, if you start having pain this will negatively affect your T levels in the long term, hence you should stop and reassess.
Conclusion: Does Edging Increase Testosterone?
The idea that edging significantly increases testosterone levels is more myth than proven fact. While it may temporarily elevate testosterone during sexual arousal and delay the post-orgasm dip, there’s no evidence to suggest it has a lasting impact on baseline testosterone levels.
However, edging can be part of a healthy sexual routine, offering benefits like enhanced pleasure, stamina, and stress reduction—all of which indirectly support hormonal health. Whether edging is good or bad for you depends on your personal goals, comfort, and how it fits into your overall lifestyle.
If you’re looking to naturally boost testosterone levels, focus on scientifically-backed methods such as regular strength training, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. For persistent concerns about low testosterone, consult a healthcare provider at Forty Health to have your T levels checked.
Ready to take control of your testosterone and overall health?
Forty Health offers natural and prescription-grade solutions to increase T. Learn more about optimizing your hormone levels with expert guidance tailored to your needs at Forty Health.
