Males and females communicate via chemical signals, some of which are detrimental to the recipient. It has been reported previously that C. elegans hermaphrodites age more rapidly in the presence of male-secreted signals, even when no live males are present. Here we show that this is due, at least in part, to two distinct secreted signals via which C. elegans males manipulate reproductive physiology of hermaphrodites. The first, mediated by conserved ascaroside pheromones, counters the loss of germline stem cells that occurs during aging. The second signal, which is species-restricted, accelerates development and results in faster sexual maturation. Several conserved signaling pathways play specific key roles in these processes. The two modes of chemical communication we report promote males’ evolutionary interests by ensuring that potential mates are mature and have sufficient gametes for successful reproduction. Effects harmful to hermaphrodites appear to be collateral damage rather than the goal of secreted signals produced by males.