Understanding the Connection Between Steroid Use and Fertility in Men

Male infertility can be a very sensitive and difficult issue for many men to accept. It can come as a big surprise that they may be creating the problem by taking certain supplements – especially (anabolic) steroids. Steroids that are used to enhance strength and fitness can actually drastically lower a sperm count (to zero in many cases).

Increasing Testosterone Levels can Lower Sperm Count

Steroids that are taken to promote muscle growth and overall fitness can actually trick the brain into thinking that there is a sufficient amount of testosterone being produced. As a result, the brain decreases its signaling to the testicles. Steroid use can actually lead to low (or absent) sperm counts and shrunken testicles. In a sense, steroids can act like male birth control.
The good news is that this is often a very treatable and recoverable form of male infertility. Once the steroid use has stopped, it generally takes about three months for sperm to return in the semen. For men who have used steroids for a long time, recovery may take longer – even sometimes a year or more.

In addition to male infertility issues, steroids can cause a number of other health issues, some of which may be irreversible:

• Acne
• Breast development
• Liver problems
• Heart attack
• Stroke

If you are taking steroids to improve your strength and muscle mass, it is critical for you to be aware of the connection between steroid use and male infertility, and risks you are taking that impact both short- and long-term heath.

When Is Testosterone Use Appropriate?

Occasionally men may be prescribed testosterone by a physician to boost an overall lower than normal testosterone level. This would be an appropriate use of testosterone. However, testosterone is a steroid hormone – and will cause the sperm count to plummet.
If a man has baseline low testosterone and also desires fertility, there are other alternative medications that can help maintain normal testosterone levels AND a normal sperm count.
Contact Texas Fertility Center to make a plan for addressing hormonal imbalances while boosting fertility.