How Steroids Affect Libido
Discovering Testostone’s Impacts on Male Sexual Function
Male sexual health is greatly influenced by testosterone, the main male sex hormone. Recent studies on the effects of testosterone, particularly in the context of anabolic steroid usage, on male sexual function have been published in Translational Andrology and Urology. The main conclusions, demographics, and consequences of high-dose testosterone therapy are examined in this blog, along with the contribution of post-cycle therapy to the restoration of sexual well-being. Join us as we explore this fascinating subject and elucidate the nuanced connection between testosterone and male sexual performance.
Research Results
While undergoing therapy, testosterone use may have a protective impact on men’s sexual function. However, problems like erectile dysfunction and a decline in libido are more likely to arise after stopping the medication, especially in those who regularly take anabolic steroids or have been taking them for a long time. American doctors came to this conclusion, and their research was documented in the journal Translational Andrology and Urology.
Men who use anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) participated in an online survey that was done by the researchers. In addition to answering questions on their usage of AAS and additional drugs, participants were also asked to explain any symptoms they may have had due to changes in their testosterone levels at the beginning and end of the therapy. The individuals’ sexual health was evaluated using the IIEF questionnaire, or International Index of Erectile Function.
90 of the 321 individuals did not match the requirements for inclusion, leaving 231 AAS users in the research group.
The bulk of participants (85%) were of European ancestry, (62% were employed), and (58% were under the age of 35). 47% of them were single, while 46% of them were married.
The average score on the IIEF questionnaire was 22.5, according to the study’s findings. Higher testosterone dosages (above 600 mg/week), the usage of 17-alkylated steroids or anti-estrogens, and the lack of other medical issues were all linked to higher test results. Lower scores were associated with signs of low testosterone levels (reported before or after AAS therapy), self-reported erectile dysfunction, low libido, reduced libido, reduced exercise, and sadness. Lower IIEF scores were still substantially connected with signs of low testosterone and limited activity even when age was taken into account.
The frequency and duration of testosterone usage, as well as the use of supplementary medication, were found to be associated with lower libido in the 127 men who reported having it without taking AAS. Such patients received post-cycle treatment, which helped them regain their sexual health.
Additionally, males were more likely to report erectile dysfunction if they also reported other symptoms following the discontinuation of testosterone, such as decreased activity, libido, and muscle mass, and depression. In the poll, these people frequently admitted to using steroids for an extended period (more than 10 years or more than 40 weeks each year). The study’s authors concluded that additional research is needed on the long-term consequences of high dosages of AAS on sexual function. Additionally, they emphasised the need for additional, extensive research on the effects of stopping steroid treatment on sexual health, taking into consideration the findings of this study.
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