Steroids are one of the most used drugs especially by people who want to gain lean muscles and engage in sports. If you plan on taking steroids, you should opt for the legal and natural steroid alternative. However, many recent studies have looked at the negative side effects of steroids. When you abuse steroids, you are very likely to experience unwanted side effects.

Promotes High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure and a sharp drop in cholesterol levels are two of the most dangerous side effects of steroids. Steroids can lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also called “bad cholesterol,” and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly called “good cholesterol.” The anatomy of the heart can be affected by steroids, for example by thickening or narrowing of the left ventricle. Anabolic steroids, which can also be taken orally, can cause liver damage. This is what many people do not know.

Increases Estrogen Levels

Anabolic steroids can also have side effects that affect the user’s physical health. The body increases estrogen levels to balance out all the testosterone. This can lead to the growth of female-like tissues in male users. This is called gynecomastia and can only be treated surgically. Men who use anabolic steroids may experience premature baldness if they have high levels of testosterone. Women may experience increased hair growth and a deeper voice.

Damages the Reproductive System

Steroid side effects can also include damaging your reproductive system. Anabolic steroid abuse in men can lead to testicular hyperplasia, shrinkage or even complete loss of the testicles, decreased sperm count, and infertility. Side effects of steroids in women include irregular menstrual bleeding, clitoral enlargement, and infertility.

Research also shows that taking anabolic steroids during pregnancy can affect fetal growth, causing the male fetus (and female fetus) to develop male characteristics and the male fetus (and female fetus) to develop female characteristics. In adolescents, steroids can slow or stop bone growth, resulting in stunted growth. Adolescents taking steroids may experience an increase in the number and duration of erections and premature sexual enhancement.