Impact of Fatherhood on Testosterone and Your Body

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Becoming a father is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. However, many men notice unexpected changes in their bodies and moods after welcoming a child. One of the most significant but lesser-known changes is a drop in testosterone levels, which can impact energy, mood, and overall well-being.

If you’ve been feeling different since becoming a dad, you’re not alone. Let’s explore how fatherhood affects testosterone and what you can do to support your physical and mental health.

 

How Fatherhood Affects Testosterone Levels

Research has shown that men experience a natural decline in testosterone levels when they become fathers. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that new fathers experienced a 30-50% drop in testosterone compared to non-fathers (Gettler et al., 2011).

Why does this happen? Experts believe it’s a biological adaptation that encourages fathers to be more nurturing and involved in caregiving. Higher testosterone is linked to mating behaviors, while lower levels promote bonding and caregiving instincts (Gray et al., 2016).

The Effects of Low Testosterone After Fatherhood

While a slight drop in testosterone is normal, a significant decline can lead to noticeable symptoms, including:

  • Fatigue and Low Energy – Many new dads feel constantly exhausted, and hormonal changes may contribute to this.
  • Weight Gain – Lower testosterone levels are linked to increased body fat, particularly around the midsection (Mah & Wittert, 2010).
  • Mood Changes and Irritability – Some men experience symptoms of depression, known as paternal postnatal depression, affecting their ability to engage in daily activities (Paulson & Bazemore, 2010).
  • Reduced Libido – Testosterone plays a crucial role in sexual health, and lower levels can contribute to decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction (Travison et al., 2007).

Supporting Your Health as a New Dad

If you’re struggling with any of these changes, know that there are ways to support your well-being:

  • Prioritize Sleep – Lack of sleep can further decrease testosterone levels. Try to get rest when you can, even if it means adjusting your routine (Leproult & Van Cauter, 2011).
  • Exercise Regularly – Strength training and high-intensity workouts can naturally boost testosterone levels (Kraemer et al., 1998).
  • Maintain a Healthy Diet – Eating nutrient-dense foods rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins supports hormone balance.
  • Talk About Your Mental Health – Paternal depression is real. Seeking therapy or talking to a specialist can help manage stress and anxiety.
  • Consider Testosterone Testing – If symptoms persist, getting your testosterone levels checked can determine if hormone therapy or other treatments might be beneficial.

You’re Not Alone—Take Control of Your Health

Fatherhood is a major life transition, and the changes you experience—both physical and emotional—are normal. But that doesn’t mean you have to struggle alone.

If you’re feeling off, tired, or just not like yourself, it may be time to check in with a specialist. Book an appointment today to learn more about how to support your testosterone levels and overall health.

 

References

  1. Gettler, L. T., McDade, T. W., Feranil, A. B., & Kuzawa, C. W. (2011). Longitudinal evidence that fatherhood decreases testosterone in human males. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 108(39), 16194-16199. Retrieved from https://www.pnas.org/content/108/39/16194
  2. Gray, P. B., et al. (2016). Testosterone and paternal care: Literature review and data from modern settings. International Journal of Epidemiology, 45(5), 1517-1528. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/ije/article/45/5/1517/2666517
  3. Mah, P. M., & Wittert, G. A. (2010). Obesity and testicular function. Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, 316(2), 180-186. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/3/3/476/5484665
  4. Paulson, J. F., & Bazemore, S. D. (2010). Prenatal and postpartum depression in fathers and its association with maternal depression: A meta-analysis. JAMA, 303(19), 1961-1969. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/185293
  5. Travison, T. G., Araujo, A. B., O’Donnell, A. B., Kupelian, V., & McKinlay, J. B. (2007). A population-level decline in serum testosterone levels in American men. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 92(2), 549-555. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/92/2/549/2598534
  6. Leproult, R., & Van Cauter, E. (2011). Effect of 1 week of sleep restriction on testosterone levels in young healthy men. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 96(8), E1314-E1318. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/96/8/E1314/2835600
  7. Kraemer, W. J., et al. (1998). Influence of resistance training volume and intensity on hormonal and strength adaptations. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 30(11), 1600-1606. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/fulltext/1998/11000/influence_of_resistance_training_volume_and.7.aspx