Social media exposes people to so much information in today’s world that it can be hard to know the full scope of all the details. Men may be exposed to videos on social media that talk about testosterone or promote anabolic steroids to increase muscle mass. Anabolic steroids are manmade versions of the male hormone testosterone. What the videos don’t say is that these drugs can be harmful. Misusing these drugs can cause heart attacks, strokes, liver injury and kidney failure. They also can cause infertility.
This is often a surprise to young men, since they are taking steroids to enhance strength and fitness. In fact, these drugs can lower sperm count at an extreme rate. This is because steroids taken to promote muscle growth can trick the brain into thinking the body is making enough testosterone. Because of this, the brain decreases its signals to the testicles, and they shrink. This results in fewer sperm being made.
Once someone stops taking steroids, it can take about three months for sperm to return in the semen. This return may not be at the same level as it was before. It can also take longer for men who have used steroids for a long time. And in some cases, the sperm may not recover at all.
There are reasons a man may be prescribed testosterone by a doctor to increase low levels of the hormone. Low testosterone can lead to problems with erections, low sex drive and mood changes. It also can decrease sperm production.
If a man has low testosterone levels and wants to have children, he should talk with his health care team. There may be other drugs that can help maintain normal testosterone levels while not having a negative impact on sperm counts. Some of these drugs may even enhance a man’s sperm count.
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