Steroid virilization is a term that’s used to explain the condition in which women develop masculine traits, as a result of using anabolic steroids.

Virilization –also known as virilism- occurs when the adrenal glands begin to uncontrollably overproduce androgens.

The adrenal glands are two small endocrine structures that are found above the kidneys. These are in charge of producing and releasing a series of different hormones into the bloodstream.

Some of these hormones are then converted by the ovaries into potent androgens – such as DHEA, Testosterone, DHT, and Estrogen.

Although these steroid hormones give female athletes an undeniable competitive edge – they’re also the cause of virilism.

Steroid virilization is irreversible and just one of the many risks associated with the uncontrolled use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). In this article, I will cover the all-important aspects of steroid virilization in women; including its symptoms and how to avoid them in the first place.

Steroid Virilization Symptoms

Symptoms of steroid virilization are very easy to recognize and rarely go unnoticed. The side effects are harsh, irreversible, and can destroy all signs of femininity.

Contrary to popular belief, no matter how low the dose or mild the steroid is; side effects will always be present.

Although most of these are permanent, the ones that can actually be reversed will require specialized medical attention, in order to be managed.

Common symptoms of steroid virilization in women are:

1. Enhanced Muscularity
2. Acne
3. Oily Skin
4. Excessive Sweating and Change in Body Odor
5. Increased Red Blood Cell Production
6. High Cholesterol and Triglycerides
7. Irregular Periods
8. Baldness
9. Facial and Body Hair Growth
10. Deepening of the Voice
11. Shrinking of the Breasts
12. Clitoral Enlargement
13. Pronounced Jaw

The first six side effects can be either managed or reversed; while the last seven are believed to be permanent. Female bodybuilders are the perfect example of steroid virilization and how it affects and modifies the appearance of the human body.

If you’ve ever attended –or seen- a bodybuilding competition, you’ve probably noticed an abundance of female competitors with deep voices, chiseled jaws, augmented breasts, and fake hair.

It’s also worth noting that the milder side effects should never be taken lightly because they can eventually lead to serious health issues.

Can Steroid Virilization Be Reversed?

As it was previously mentioned, some of the milder symptoms of steroid virilization can actually be managed or reversed; under the guidance of a medical expert.

What’s considered mild? I’m talking about acne, oily skin, body odor, etc.

These can be reversed by avoiding steroids and by using medically-prescribed antiandrogens and estrogens.

Sadly, once the voice has deepened, the facial structure has changed, and baldness has begun to set it – there’s no possible way to reverse the symptoms. The same goes for the rest of the harsher side effects.

Some women who’ve used steroids have also reported irregular periods and thyroid-related problems.

Truthfully, there isn’t much information on whether these symptoms are reversible or not. With that being said, they are very delicate issues that should not be taken lightly.

How to Avoid Steroid Virilization

The only way to avoid steroid virilization is by staying away from anabolic steroids in the first place.

Some women believe that certain steroids are more dangerous than others; which wrongfully leads them to experiment with unstable compounds that are both extremely dangerous and unpredictable.

Any expert on the subject will tell you that a steroid’s potential impact is impossible to determine. Everyone’s body is genetically unique and will respond differently.

Some people can use extreme doses and not experience a single side effect; while others could use a mild steroid -in low doses- and see their body suffer from several symptoms.

So again, the only proven way for women to avoid steroid virilization is by staying away from these illegal substances and building their physiques naturally.
Conclusion

Steroid virilization is a common risk that affects women who rely on the use of anabolic steroids for performance-enhancing purposes. The condition is typically followed by a series of symptoms/side effects that can negatively impact, reduce, and destroy all signs of femininity.

No matter how controlled or mild a steroid cycle is – the female body is very delicate and, therefore, highly susceptible to suffer from virilism.

Even though it’s widely believed that some steroids pose a lesser risk for virilization; there’s no possible way to know for sure if this actually holds true for all women. .

There are way too many variables that determine if -and when- someone will be likely to experience any of the side effects of virilization. Once these begin to appear, they will cause irreparable damage to the body that will be extremely difficult to undo.

The harsher side effects will be permanent, while the milder ones will require medical intervention to be either managed or undone.

For this reason, it’s best to stay away from steroids and instead focus on building a physique naturally; following a strict diet, a smart training routine, and using proper supplementation.

References:

https://www.steroid.com/Steroids-and-Women.php
https://www.healthline.com/symptom/virilism
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virilization

Rosalie Bennoto

Hi My name is Rosalie and the author of Womenandmuscle.com I started this blog to help women understand a little about the side effects of anabolic steroids and share some of my favorite alternatives that have helped me stay in shape and improve my performance in the gym.

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