Did You Know That Steroid Usage Can Cause Gynecomastia?

By Jerome Edelstein, MD

Gynecomastia is a common condition that results in the development of male breast tissue.This growth can occur at any stage of life – from infancy, to adolescence or adulthood; however, it is most prevalent amongst pubescent males whose hormones are naturally fluctuating. While the development of enlarged male breasts can be devastating, teenage Gynecomastia typically resolves itself within 6 to 24 months.

Conversely, Gynecomastia that develops at a later age is persistent, often requiring surgery. In many instances, this development is not related to normal hormone fluctuations, but rather, is a direct result of steroid usage and can therefore be avoided.

Men who are interested in bodybuilding may resort to taking steroids in order to build up mass or muscle strength. While they may help achieve that goal, steroids, particularly anabolic steroids, have a number of negative side effects, including infertility, balding, acne, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, liver disease, delusions, strange behaviour, and the development of breast tissue. As a result, many of the men who require Gynecomastia surgery are individuals who have previously taken steroids. Thus, it is crucial to consider all of the consequences before choosing to alter your body through the use of steroids.Steroids contain testosterone, the male sex hormone, which may help individuals increase strength or muscle, appearing more ‘manly’. However, as a result, their body believes it has sufficient testosterone and consequently, reduces its natural production of the male hormone. In fact, some of the steroids may even be converted into the female sex hormone, estrogen, in response. This, in turn, leads to the development of breast tissue, as the steroid causes a hormonal imbalance much like the hormonal upset experienced naturally during puberty.

Although, many companies sell bodybuilders estrogen blockers, which promise to thwart the development of unwanted breast tissue, these supplements are ineffective in preventing Gynecomastia. This condition often begins to develop as soon as anabolic steroids are introduced and becomes progressively worse with continued use.

Another misconception about the use of anabolic steroids among bodybuilders is that discontinuing steroid usage will cause the symptoms of Gynecomastia to dissipate.  In fact, many bodybuilders incorporate breaks from steroids into their routines, believing that the body’s natural hormonal balance will be restored and breast tissue will disappear. However, the breast growth that is symptomatic of steroid use is permanent and will therefore not resolve itself when steroids are cut out. Dieting and exercise targeted at tightening the chest will also not be effective in eliminating breast tissue.Another misconception about the use of anabolic steroids among bodybuilders is that discontinuing steroid usage will cause the symptoms of Gynecomastia to dissipate.  In fact, many bodybuilders incorporate breaks from steroids into their routines, believing that the body’s natural hormonal balance will be restored and breast tissue will disappear. However, the breast growth that is symptomatic of steroid use is permanent and will therefore not resolve itself when steroids are cut out. Dieting and exercise targeted at tightening the chest will also not be effective in eliminating breast tissue.Although it is best to prevent the development of Gynecomastia by steering clear of anabolic steroids, there are treatment options available for individuals who suffer from steroid- induced Gynecomastia. Surgery is the most effective solution as it gets to the root of the problem by removing the excess tissue, thereby flattening the chest. If you are bothered by the appearance of enlarged male breasts, we welcome you to contact our clinic to schedule a consultation in order to learn more about how Gynecomastia surgery can help you restore your masculine physique and confidence.