More and more people are using steroids these days, but it’s important to know they can affect fertility in both men and women. If your husband is on steroids, you might wonder how that impacts your chances of getting pregnant.
Here’s what you need to know about steroid use in men and how it affects the odds of a safe and successful pregnancy.
Understanding the Connection Between Steroid Use and Male Fertility
How Steroids Affect Testosterone and Sperm Production
Anabolic steroids can dramatically lower a man’s sperm count, sometimes even to zero. Here’s why: When someone uses steroids, it fools the brain into thinking there’s plenty of testosterone already on board. This causes the testicles to slow down or even stop producing testosterone, which in turn shrinks the testicles.
Recovery Time and Factors Influencing It
If your partner has been using steroids, how long until his sperm count returns to normal? Research indicates that it usually takes about 3 months after stopping steroid use to see improvements. However, if he’s been using steroids for a long time, it could take a year or even longer.
A man’s age, overall health, and even his genes can influence how quickly his sperm production bounces back.
Health Risks Beyond Infertility
Steroids can cause a range of health problems, some of which are irreversible. These include acne, breast development in men, liver problems, heart attack, and stroke. It’s important to consider these risks when thinking about using steroids.
Steroid abuse can also lead to psychological issues, such as aggression and mood swings, and potentially hypersexual behavior, which can put a strain on relationships and further complicate the journey to parenthood.
What are the alternatives and when should you seek medical advice?
If a man has low testosterone but wants to preserve his fertility, there are medications that can help him maintain normal testosterone and sperm count.
If you are concerned about fertility, you should talk to your doctor about alternative treatments and the potential impact of steroid use. A fertility clinic can also provide personalized treatment plans to address prior steroid use and help you achieve a healthy pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can steroids cause birth defects?
While research is limited, some studies suggest that steroid use during pregnancy, particularly corticosteroids, may be associated with an increased risk of certain birth defects, such as cleft palate. The impact of anabolic steroid use by the father on birth defects is less clear, but caution is advised.
How to increase sperm count after steroids?
Steroid use can significantly suppress sperm production. To increase sperm count after discontinuing steroids, doctors may recommend medications like Clomiphene or HCG. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise (avoiding overtraining), and stress reduction, can also help. Consult a fertility specialist for personalized advice.
What are the effects of steroids on the fetus?
The effects of a mother’s steroid use on the fetus can vary depending on the type of steroid, dosage, and stage of pregnancy. Potential effects include growth restriction, adrenal suppression, and, in some cases, masculinization of female fetuses.
Do steroids affect babies?
Yes, steroids can affect babies, particularly if the mother used them during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Steroids can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby’s hormone levels and development. Always consult a doctor before using any medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can steroids pass through sperm?
Steroids themselves do not “pass through sperm” in the sense of being directly carried within the sperm cell to fertilize an egg. However, a man’s steroid use can damage his sperm and lower his sperm count, and his altered hormones may be passed to the offspring.
Summary
Steroid use in men can have a big effect on fertility, and it also comes with other health risks. If you and your partner are planning to get pregnant, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional. They can assess the risks and benefits and help you both explore alternatives to steroid use.