Castration is a process which involves removal or deactivation of the testes by surgical means or by using medication. This process causes a decrease in production of male hormones and causes sterility in men.

The process involves removal of the testes by surgical means which is referred to as physical castration or by using medication which is referred to as chemical castration. Chemical castration may lead to temporary or permanent deactivation of the testes.

Castration is done for various purposes such as reducing the production of the male hormone testosterone, it is also done to prevent the individual from reproducing. In ancient times, castration was used as a punishment.

If castration is done before puberty it causes their voice to remain high pitched and their sex drive is very low or absent. Secondary sexual characters such as pubic hair are also not seen. If the procedure is done after puberty it may reduce or completely eliminate one's sex drive.

Orchidectomy is similar to castration. It involves removal of one testes or in some cases, both. The procedure is sometimes done to treat testicular cancer, prostate cancer and testicular torsion.