One of the reasons I often hear people mention when it comes to taking steroids is that it doesn’t just help with muscle growth and performance but also with bedroom activities.
And while there’s nothing wrong with that added bonus, it’s important to understand what actually happens and if this is a lasting effect.
So, I teamed up with a doctor to research scientific literature on how different steroids may impact sex drive.
There were quite a few surprises that might make readers think twice about taking such prescription drugs.
Quick Summary
- Steroids can artificially boost testosterone levels, boosting your libido and fertility.
- Long-term usage of steroids can present some side effects like premature ejaculation.
- Research published by the National Library of Medicine shows that zinc, vitamin D3, and magnesium are three vital micronutrients for hormone production.
- In my view, the risks of steroids far outweigh the temporary sexual performance boost they may offer.
Do Steroids Affect You Sexually?
Yes, steroids affect you sexually. Some have a positive impact on your testosterone levels, while there are others that have a negative effect. And then, there is the impact of long-term use without medical supervision which can boost your testosterone but still lead to erectile dysfunction.
Here’s what that means.
Studies published in the National Library of Medicine have shown that the initial effect of androgenic steroid use can be positive for sex drive [1].
However, that same drug can also shrink and damage testicles, as per a study published in CNN Health [2]. And that can reduce the body’s ability to naturally maintain healthy T-levels.
Additionally, the psychological effects of such physical changes include a potential increase in anxiety and mood disorders among long-term steroid users.
“Men who use anabolic steroids in large doses will have issues with testosterone and sperm production, and they may not recover even after they stop using the steroids.”
- Sandee LaMotte, Writer at CNN.com.
It’s also important to understand that corticosteroids like Prednisone may directly reduce serum testosterone which can then lead to erectile problems, as per a study published by the Australian Prescriber [3].
What Types Make You More Sexually Active?
Some anabolic steroids can make you more sexually active.
These types tend to cause a significant boost in T-levels within hours and a few days, as per The Guardian [4].
But from my extensive experience as a fitness coach, these effects are short-lived. And because steroids don’t solve the underlying problem of low testosterone production, they are not a suitable solution for increasing libido and fertility.
Taking such actions without careful monitoring and observation of side effects by a medical doctor could lead to long-term health problems. For instance, according to the New York State Department of Health, steroid use can lead to osteoporosis or increased fracture risk over time [5].
Alternatives to Steroid Use
Scientists have been researching what the body needs to boost production and provide enough of the nutrients needed for that production. Lifestyle factors such as sleep quality and stress management play a pivotal role in hormonal balance and sexual health.
Studies published in the National Library of Medicine show that zinc, vitamin D3, and magnesium are three vital micronutrients needed to produce hormones [6].
Additional studies, also published by the National Institutes of Health, show that if you add some Ashwagandha and Fenugreek, you could have an ideal combination to signal an increased production [7].
If these supplements are not what you are looking for, the best way for safe steroid use is to go for natural and legal steroids.
FAQs
Can Steroids Prevent You From Ejaculating?
Yes, steroids can prevent you from ejaculating. However, this is generally a side effect after long-term use of very high doses, as per studies published on Science Direct [8].
Can Your Steroid Use Affect Your Partner?
No, steroid use won’t directly affect your partner. The only way the steroids may transfer is if you apply some form of steroid cream and it rubs off onto your partner.
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8435035/
- https://edition.cnn.com/2021/03/09/health/bodybuilding-steroids-testicular-damage-study-wellness/index.html
- https://www.nps.org.au/australian-prescriber/articles/drug-induced-sexual-dysfunction-in-men-and-women#r46
- https://www.theguardian.com/society/2017/mar/31/rise-in-middle-aged-men-taking-steroids-to-feel-more-youthful-experts-say
- https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/1985/index.htm
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33076711/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8166567/
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