Abstract

This literature review examines what anabolic steroids are, how they work, how they are used, and their effects on female athletes. With increasing female participation in sport, more knowledge of the effect of anabolic steroids on the female athlete is essential. Anabolic steroids may aid performance by building lean body (muscle) mass and increasing strength. This is accomplished by increasing the level of the male hormone, testosterone, in the body, increasing nitrogen and potassium retention, enhancing protein synthesis, blocking the uptake of cortisol in the muscles, reducing fatigue, and slowing protein breakdown. Female athletes suffer the same risks of developing related side effects of anabolic steroid use as males. Females may develop side effects of acne, male pattern baldness, increased facial hair growth, peliosis hepatitis, reduced serum HDL-cholesterol levels, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Specific sex-related side effects may also develop in females. These side effects include menstrual irregularities due to the inhibition of FSH and LH in the pituitary, enlargement of the clitoris, deepening of the voice, and decreased breast size. It is essential that health care professionals, coaches, and athletes know and be able to recognize the development of these side effects, to properly counsel and educate the athlete about the risks of anabolic steroid use. Verf.-Referat