Drugs In Sports

Anabolic steroids -- or, anabolic-androgenic steroids -- are the synthetic derivatives of the naturally occurring male anabolic hormone called testosterone. Both anabolic and androgenic have origins from the Greek: anabolic, meaning "to build," and androgenic, meaning "masculinizing." Testosterone’s natural androgenic effects trigger the maturing of the male reproductive system in puberty, including the growth of body hair and the deepening of the voice. The hormone’s anabolic effect helps the body retain dietary protein, which aids in the development of muscles. There are many types of steroids with varying degrees of anabolic and androgenic properties, and it’s the anabolic property of steroids that lures athletes. They take them to primarily increase muscle mass and strength.

There shouldn’t be a controversy over anabolic steroid use in sports, non-medical use of anabolic steroids is illegal and banned by most, if not all, major sports organizations. But, some athletes persist in taking them, believing that these substances will provide a competitive advantage over their rivals. But beyond the issues of popularity or legality is the fact that anabolic steroids can cause physical and psychological side effects.

Physical side effects

In Men –
Although anabolic steroids are extracted from male sex hormone, men who take them do experience a "feminization" effect along with a decrease in normal male sexual function. Such as: Sperm count reduction, impotence, development of breasts, shrinking of the testicles and feel pain while urinating

In Women –
While, women experience masculinization from anabolic steroids, including the following:  Growth of facial hair, deepened voice, smaller breasts and change in menstrual cycle.