January 2018
Giacomo Tirabassi, Maurizio Sudano, Gianmaria Salvio, Melissa Cutini, Giovanna Muscogiuri, Giovanni Corona, and Giancarlo Balercia

 

Abstract

Background

The effects of vitamin D on sexual function are very unclear. Therefore, we aimed at evaluating the possible association between vitamin D and sexual function and at assessing the influence of vitamin D administration on sexual function.

 

Methods

We retrospectively studied 114 men by evaluating clinical, biochemical, and sexual parameters. A subsample (n = 41) was also studied longitudinally before and after vitamin D replacement therapy.

 

Results

In the whole sample, after performing logistic regression models, higher levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were significantly associated with high values of total testosterone and of all the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire parameters.

On the other hand, higher levels of total testosterone were positively and significantly associated with high levels of erectile function and IIEF total score. After vitamin D replacement therapy, total and free testosterone increased and erectile function improved, whereas other sexual parameters did not change significantly. At logistic regression analysis, higher levels of vitamin D increase (Δ-) were significantly associated with high values of Δ-erectile function after adjustment for Δ-testosterone.

 

Conclusions

Vitamin D is important for the wellness of male sexual function, and vitamin D administration improves sexual function.