Can Steroids Cause a Low Sperm Count?

 The bottom line is that steroids can really affect male fertility, especially causing a low sperm count. Find out if the effects are reversible.

There are many things that can cause a low sperm count. From diet, to medical issues, to lifestyle choices, these are all things that can affect sperm count and quality. Today we are going to find out if steroids are another thing that can cause a low sperm count. Keep reading to learn more.

What are steroids?

Steroids are commonly used drugs. They are often used by men who play sports or wish to build muscle. Basically, anabolic steroids are a synthetic form of testosterone, which is the male hormone. Most men inject them, but they can also be taken orally.

The problems with steroids

There can be many problems attributed to steroid use and abuse, but one of the most prominent side effects is low sperm count. Most men don’t see lowered sperm counts right away, but they do see them months, or even years down the road. Even if your man doesn’t take steroids now, but has done so in the past, he could still be suffering from low sperm count due to his steroid use.

Other reproductive problems

Steroids can cause widespread problems with a guy’s reproductive tract, not just low sperm counts. Steroid use can cause impotence and low sex drive in men. Steroid use can also cause shrinking of the testicles and other male reproductive problems. Some of these problems can be reversed by stopping the use of the drugs, but some of the side effects could possibly be permanent.

What to do

Of course, the most important thing to do if you are taking anabolic steroids is to stop right away. While some of the effects of steroid use can be reversed just by quitting, that is not always the case. Sometimes, doctors will be able to help the body to begin producing testosterone again by prescribing Clomid, often used to help jump start ovulation in women. Sometimes an aromatase inhibitor can do the trick as well.

What this means

The bottom line is that steroids can really affect male fertility, especially sperm count. The best option is to never, ever use steroids at all. If you know someone who is using steroids, and they want to have a baby, they need to stop using them all together. Doctors can also help figure out if the steroid damage is permanent or if it is something that can be reversed. The best advice is that if you have a history of steroid use; seek the advice and help of a doctor as soon as possible.