Erectile Dysfunction is a common sexual disorder in men or Assigned Males at Birth (AMAB).
Steroids are a group of anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat a wide range of health problems.
But does the use of steroids cause Erectile Dysfunction?
This article will discuss how to avoid Erectile Dysfunction on steroids.
We will also outline a few measures to reduce the side effects of steroids.
Do steroids cause Erectile Dysfunction?
Yes, misuse of steroids can cause Erectile Dysfunction.
According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, misuse of steroids may lead to ED symptoms in men.
This risk intensifies even further in a person with otherwise healthy Testosterone function.
People who take Anabolic steroids, a type of steroid, are more likely to get ED symptoms than others.
This type of steroid is often used to treat Hypogonadism and Testicular failure.
Some individuals might use steroids illegally for performance enhancement purposes.
Such misuses of steroids make sexual dysfunction in males even worse.
How do steroids work
As was already said, steroids are man-made versions of hormones generally produced by the adrenal glands.
The exact working of steroids depends on their type and target of action.
Studies state that there are usually three steroid types: Anabolic, Cortico, and Sex steroids.
Anabolic steroids are linked to certain receptors in muscle cells.
This action causes muscle cells to make more proteins.
It enables the muscles to grow, get bigger and stronger.
Anabolic steroids help the body store nitrogen, essential for muscle growth.
How are Steroids and Erectile Dysfunction linked?
The use of steroids comes with a long list of associated side effects. One of the most significant side effects is that they might affect sexual function in men.
A study published on the NCBI website states that over or extended use of Anabolics can cause ED.
This steroid type is well-known for its aromatic effects.
This action of Anabolics may disrupt the body’s hormonal balance.
Anabolics may reduce Testosterone production while increasing Estrogen levels.
This action may result in a decreased libido, weaker erections, or a reduced sperm count.
Apart from this, Anabolic steroids may also impact the working of blood vessels.
Anabolics may cause damage to endothelial tissues, reducing penile blood flow.
It weakens your ability to get and maintain an erection, leading to ED.
Medication for Erectile Dysfunction
Cenforce 100 | Vidalista 60 | Vidalista 20 | Cenforce 200
How to avoid Erectile Dysfunction on steroids
According to the Harm education journal, the best way to avoid ED while on steroids is to avoid using them.
As Anabolic steroids are more likely to cause ED symptoms, one must be even more cautious.
Below listed are a few tips to help you avoid Erectile Dysfunction on steroids:
Follow the prescription: Adhere to the medicine dosage and precautions as directed by your physician. Avoid overdosing or using steroids for periods longer than recommended.
Take breaks: Consider taking breaks in between your regular doses. It will allow your body to recover the hormonal imbalance.
Keep regular checks: Frequently check your blood pressure, sugar levels, and liver function. Using steroids may hamper your regular body functions.
Improve your lifestyle: Adopt a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and limit substance use. It will help the body restore sexual function.
Take supplements: Supplements like L-Arginine and Zinc may help to improve male sexual function. Discuss with your doctor to confirm if these can benefit you.
Seek medical assistance: Discussing steroids’ benefits and side effects can help lower the risks.
Remember, your doctor will prescribe steroids only if they provide more benefits than harm.
But there might be cases when some individuals develop ED symptoms by using steroids.
Talk to a doctor if your situation doesn’t improve, or the symptoms worsen.
How do you fix Erectile Dysfunction from steroids
Erectile Dysfunction is a familiar side effect of steroid use.
There are several ways to address this problem.
These may include reducing the doses of steroids or altogether quitting them.
Let’s discuss the possible remedies in detail here.
ED treatments that might help
If you get ED symptoms as a side effect of using steroids, consult a doctor.
Most men may benefit from taking prescription ED medicines.
Your doctor may prescribe Viagra, Tadalafil, or Levitra for your symptoms.
In some cases, medications may not be enough. Your doctor may suggest ED devices like penile rings or a vacuum device.
Rarely may doctors recommend surgeries to restore penile function and treat ED.