A six pack guy is every girls dream, so a six pack is every men’s dream. To make this dream come true many men hit the gym. But making a macho heroic body with 6 pack is not easy and is challenging. To counter this challenge men often end up taking some supplements, etc. these supplements mostly contain anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids are basically synthetic substances that mimic the male hormone testosterone in their function. All the male phenotype voice, muscle, hair, etc is associated with testosterone. To promote faster muscle growth and enhance the performance men take these supplements since 1930s. These steroids are functionally of 3 types:
Bulking steroids: to make muscle bulk
Performance steroids: to boost endurance
Cutting steroids: to loose weight
These steroids are available in pill, powder or injection forms. The known steroids available are Dianabol, Deca Durabolin, winstrol, trenbolone, clenbuterol, anadrol, oxandrin,equipoise and Anavar.
These steroids were originally made as medical supplements for patients who were suffering from disease related muscle loss or bad endurance. But their misuse soon started in the body building industry.
Here are some ways in which gyming steroids can affect male fertility:
•Hormonal imbalances: Anabolic steroids disrupt the natural balance of hormones in the body. They can lead to a decrease in the production of testosterone, which is essential for sperm production. This hormonal imbalance can result in decreased sperm count and quality, leading to infertility or reduced fertility.
•Testicular atrophy: Prolonged use of anabolic steroids can cause the testicles to shrink in size. This occurs because the body recognizes the presence of excess testosterone (from the steroids) and signals the testes to stop producing testosterone naturally. As a result, testicular atrophy can occur, affecting sperm production.
•Sperm abnormalities: Anabolic steroids can lead to changes in sperm morphology (shape) and motility (movement). This can decrease the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg successfully.
•Suppression of natural hormone production: When anabolic steroids are used, the body’s natural production of testosterone and other hormones can be suppressed. After discontinuing steroid use, it may take time for the body to resume normal hormone production, which can further impact fertility.
•Sexual dysfunction: Anabolic steroid use has been linked to sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and reduced libido. These issues can have an indirect effect on fertility by impacting sexual function and the ability to conceive.
It’s important to note that the effects of anabolic steroids on male fertility can vary depending on the duration and dosage of use, individual genetic factors, and other lifestyle factors.
But why are we anxious about them, even if a drug is making the man of my dream then what’s the problem? The problem is that the man might become your dream looking guy buy but may lose the potential of reproducing. Yes you read it right. These steroids can suppress the semen production in make it substandard or even nil in some cases. So he will only look good but not do good. They can also cause shrunken testicles and even erectile dysfunction. Long time use has also seen to cause breast development, hair loss and acne. It has been associated with a lot of mood swing and behavioural issues. It also leads to high blood pressure and risk of cardiac disease and prostate cancer.
Any such medicine which is making man prone to all this is not worth it in my opinion. These steroids might be synthetically made or naturally occurring, their effects are not going to change. So there is no replacement of hard work. To get that dream body you have to do work out and no medicine. Because your health and your life is much more precious and important than any macho look. If you are using or considering the use of anabolic steroids and are concerned about their impact on your fertility, it is strongly recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a fertility specialist. They can provide you with personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation and help you make informed decisions regarding your health and fertility.
Regards
Senior Gynaecologist and IVF specialist
Co director IVF
Cloud nine hospital GCR, Gurgaon