Does male sexual behavior require progesterone?

Abstract

In this article, we provide a concise review of the past and current literature on the neglected influence of progesterone on male sexual behavior. Although there has been increased interest in all aspects of male sexual function, and the importance of androgens in the regulation of male copulatory behavior has long been well documented, knowledge of the role of progesterone on male sexual behavior is still patchy. Very little human data exist on this theme, and most of the literature concerns animal research, in particular reptiles and rodents. This review attempts to outline specific progesterone mechanisms involved in male sexual behavior, showing that this hormone plays a more relevant role in the control of male sexual behavior than commonly assumed. Exploring the neuroendocrine mechanisms of progesterone in the sexual behavior of males may provide insights into the regulation of sexuality in this gender. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.