Side Effects of Steroids on Women

Women are sensitive to the side effects that accompany steroid use and may notice a whole host of changes in their bodies due to the use of steroids.

Function

• Anabolic steroids are a man-made form of testosterone which can be used to promote muscle growth in addition to treating conditions such as delayed puberty and impotence in males.

Identification

• Steroids are available by prescription in either tablet, liquid, gel or cream form depending on the type of steroid prescribed and the manufacturer.

Physical Changes

• Physical side effects include leaner, more defined muscles, a loss of feminine curves, shrinkage of breast tissue, coarse skin, deepening of the voice, male-pattern baldness and puffiness.

Physiological Changes

• Physiological changes that can occur are ligament and tendon damage, changes or cessation of the menstrual cycle, damage to the liver, weakened immune system, increase in cholesterol levels, cardiovascular damage and heart attack.

Warning

• Women who use anabolic steroids are at increased risk for reproductive problems such as infertility, cervical cancer and endometrial cancer.