Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Male and Female Fertility

Basically, anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that mimic the action of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. These substances essentially act as analogs of male hormones, influencing various physiological processes.

The Use?

●      Men often use anabolic steroids to achieve a well-defined physique and enhance their strength during workouts.

●      Athletes may use these substances to increase muscle strength to improve their performance.

●      Women engaging in fitness and body shaping use anabolic steroids to achieve a lean and muscular physique.

Effect of Anabolic Steroids on Male Fertility

Now, coming to the point, the excessive use of anabolic steroids can lead to several negative impacts on reproductive health.

One of the notable effects of anabolic steroids is the reduction in sperm count. Anabolic steroids increase the production of testosterone. The elevated level of testosterone will send signals to the brain to suppress the production of FSH and LH, essential for normal sperm production, leading to hormonal imbalance. This hormonal imbalance reduces the sperm count, resulting in azoospermia, a medical condition when there are zero sperm in ejaculation.

Effect of Anabolic Steroids on Female Fertility

Now, let’s see how anabolic steroids affect female fertility.

Menstrual Irregularities: Anabolic steroids can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle in women, causing delayed or missed periods or even the complete cessation of menstruation.

Virilization: Anabolic steroids in women can increase the risk of virilization, which means the development of male secondary sexual characteristics. In women, this may manifest as increased facial hair, acne, clitoral enlargement, and deepening of the voice.

Infertility Risks: Although rare, prolonged use of anabolic steroids can increase the chances of infertility risk. How? Anabolic steroids suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, a crucial system governing the menstrual cycle and fertility. But there is good news. Discontinuing steroid use can restore fertility in some cases.

How Could You Deal With the Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Fertility?

Do you know that you can address the reproductive consequences of anabolic steroid use? Here are some proactive steps that you can take to deal with the effects of anabolic steroids on fertility.

●      Stop the use of anabolic steroids for a period to allow your body to restore hormonal balance, as it can help to reverse the effect of steroids on reproductive health.

●      In some cases, anti-estrogen medications may also be prescribed to counteract the negative impact on sperm production.

●      If you are planning to conceive, consult an IVF specialist in Delhi for an alternative option in case of reduced sperm production.

While anabolic steroids may offer temporary physical benefits, it is essential to understand the side effects they might cause on both male and female reproductive health. Understanding the hazards, getting expert advice, and putting long-term well-being ahead of short-term advantages are all critical steps that you can take to tackle the complicated scenario of anabolic steroid usage and its influence on female and male fertility.