For both men and females, hormones are essential for controlling a variety of characteristics of sexual activity. The endocrine system secretes these chemical messengers, which have an impact on sexual behavior and physiological functions.Testosterone, which is often referred to as the "male sex hormone," is found in both males and females, but it is more prevalent in men. It is important for the growth of male reproductive organs, the generation of sperm, and the preservation of secondary sexual traits in males (such as facial hair and deep voice).

Testosterone affects sexual drive and arousal and is linked to libido, or sexual desire, in both genders.The main sex hormone in females is estrogen, however lower levels are also found in men. Estrogen is essential for the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and pregnancy in females.The health of reproductive organs and sexual desire are both influenced by estrogen. Sexual desire may be impacted by variations in estrogen levels that occur throughout the menstrual cycle.

Another hormone that is found in both males and females is progesterone, which is found in greater amounts during pregnancy and the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.Progesterone promotes pregnancy and has an effect on the lining of the uterus. Its direct influence on sexual behavior is less clear, although interactions with estrogen are important for reproductive health in general.