The Effect of Regular Exercise on Reproductive Hormones in Male Athletes

Abstract

Objective: The effects of regular exercise on hormones have been subject of many research and as a result, the idea that hormonal changes respond to physical activity by metabolic and endocrine adaptation has gained weight. However, it was observed that studies conducted in male groups might be inadequate in terms of hormone profile determination. The purpose of the study is to examine the effects of regular exercise on blood levels of reproductive hormones.
Material and Methods: In the study, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, total testosterone, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and prolactin levels that are effective in reproductive function were examined in 40 males (20 sedentary subjects, 20 athletes). Findings were analysed by independent t-test, and values diverging beyond the p<0.05 level were accepted as significantly different.
Results: According to the results, it was determined that estradiol was significantly higher (30.9 ± 13.4 pg/ml) and LH lower (3.76 ± 0.65 mU/ml) in sedentary (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant differences in total testosterone, TSH, FSH and prolactin hormone levels between groups.
Conclusion: According to these findings, we suggest that regular exercise programmes may affect some male reproductive hormones.

Cite this article as: Kayacan Y, Öniz M. The effect of regular exercise on reproductive hormones in male athletes. Turk J Sports Med. 2017;52:84-91.

This study was supported by Ondokuz Mayıs University, Scientific Research Support Project PYO.YDS.1904.16.001.