Do Cigars Increase Testosterone, or Is It Just a Myth?

Globally, approximately 1.3 billion people use tobacco products, with around 80% residing in low- and middle-income countries.

For many people, smoking a cigar is essentially a way to pass the time, unwind, or mark a special occasion. Some even light it up in hopes of reaping some rumored health benefits, like it being a way to boost testosterone levels. 

But is there truth to the question, do cigars increase testosterone?

Let's get into the details.

Does Smoking Cigars Raise Testosterone?

Cigars have long been associated with masculinity and strength, which may have made people think it could boost testosterone. This idea comes from the temporary effects of nicotine, the main ingredient in cigars, which can trigger a stress response and a brief increase in adrenaline and energy. This can make smokers feel more alert and confident, which some may mistake for a rise in testosterone.

But this effect doesn’t last. Nicotine also causes the body to release cortisol, a hormone linked to stress. When cortisol levels go up, testosterone levels often go down. Over time, the repeated release of cortisol can lower your testosterone production. So, while smoking may feel like it’s giving you a boost, it’s actually doing the opposite in the long run.

Nicotine also affects blood flow by making blood vessels smaller, limiting oxygen and nutrients reaching important organs like the testes. This can hurt their ability to produce testosterone and perform other reproductive functions. 

So, Do Cigars Increase Testosterone Levels?

The short answer is no. The short-term effects of cigars don't really reflect long-term testosterone benefits. Over time, the chemicals in cigars can disrupt hormone balance, so that initial spike can be misleading.

While some studies do suggest that smokers have higher testosterone levels than non-smokers, these findings are not definitive, and cigars are not proven to have a direct effect on the increase of testosterone.

This relationship is likely just influenced by complex factors, such as stress and metabolic changes. Add to that, any short-term changes are still overshadowed by the long-term risks of smoking. This includes hormone disruption and decreased fertility.

Is a Cigar Bad for Your Sperm?

Yes, cigars can negatively impact your sperm health. It reduces sperm count, motility (how well sperm move), and the amount of semen you produce. Even if you're just a casual smoker, cigars can still lower your sperm quality, and heavy smoking can cause DNA damage in your sperm. This may result in miscarriages or complications during the conception.

The toxins are notoriously known for harming your overall reproductive health, and this can ruin your partner's chances of conceiving as well through second-hand smoking. Exposure to smoke during pregnancy and infancy also raises the chance of delayed development for your kid.

If you're trying to conceive, quitting smoking is one of the most effective steps to improve your fertility and protect your future reproductive plans.

Are Cigars Bad for Erectile Dysfunction?

Yes, cigars can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). 

Smoking damages blood vessels, which reduces blood flow throughout the body, including to the genitals. This restricted circulation makes it harder to achieve and maintain an erection. Since proper blood flow is essential for sexual activity, regular cigar smoking increases the risk of ED over time.

The nicotine in cigars can interfere with nitric oxide levels in the body, which further limits blood flow. Even if you don’t feel the effects immediately, the long-term damage caused by smoking builds up, making ED more likely as you age. 

Does Smoking Decrease Testosterone Levels?

Now, let's answer the opposite: does smoking decrease testosterone?

As mentioned, smoking can cause a temporary spike due to the stress response triggered by nicotine. But over time, the chemicals in cigars disrupt the body's ability to maintain healthy hormone production. Organs like the testes and adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing testosterone, can be negatively impacted by prolonged smoking.

So yes, smoking does decrease your testosterone levels over time. 

Does Vape Increase Testosterone?

Vaping, like smoking cigars, does not increase testosterone levels. Despite being marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping still introduces nicotine into the body. Nicotine from any source can disrupt blood flow and hormone regulation, which may lead to decreased testosterone over time.

Furthermore, vaping includes other chemicals whose long-term effects on hormones are still being studied. 

While it may feel like a less harmful option compared to cigars, vaping carries risks that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially for men concerned about maintaining healthy testosterone levels.

Do Cigars Affect Muscle Growth?

Cigars can negatively affect muscle growth by disrupting testosterone production, which is crucial for building and maintaining muscle. Smoking also reduces oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which can impair your body’s ability to recover after workouts and perform at its peak during exercise.

In the long term, smoking can lead to decreased energy, reduced physical stamina, and slower muscle repair. For anyone focused on improving their fitness and muscle mass, smoking cigars can just create unnecessary hurdles. 

The Takeaway

So, do cigars increase testosterone? 

While cigars may seem like a symbol of strength and relaxation, the reality is that their effects on testosterone are minimal and temporary. Any short-term spike from nicotine is quickly outweighed by the long-term harm cigars cause to hormone balance, reproductive health, and overall well-being. 

From lower sperm quality to increased risks of erectile dysfunction and decreased testosterone levels, cigars do far more harm than good.

Quitting smoking, whether cigars or vaping, is one of the best steps you can take for your health. By focusing on healthier habits like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting quality sleep, you can naturally support your testosterone levels and improve your overall health. 

Take Charge of Your Hormonal Health with Craft Men's Clinic

If you’ve been wondering how smoking might be affecting your reproductive health, Craft Men's Clinic is here to guide you. Quitting cigars is a great first step, but maintaining balanced testosterone levels often requires a tailored approach to support your body’s natural hormone production.

At Craft Men's Clinic, we specialize in testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and personalized health plans to help men boost energy, improve performance, and regain their confidence. Our expert team works with you to address your specific concerns and create long-term solutions that fit your lifestyle.

Don’t wait to prioritize your health. Schedule your consultation with Craft Men's Clinic today and start your journey toward better hormonal balance and lasting vitality.