Jas Paterson, a 26-year-old natural bodybuilder and powerlifting coach from Australia, competes regularly without using steroids, relying instead on strict training to build muscle. She represents a growing number of women joining the bodybuilding community, which has surged in popularity.
However, this rise comes with a darker side. Research from Griffith University shows women bodybuilders are 12 times more likely to use anabolic steroids than the general female population. Globally, about 4% of women report steroid use, up from 1.4% in 2014, even though steroids are illegal without a prescription.
Anabolic steroids mimic male hormones and can cause serious side effects in women, such as facial hair growth, hair loss, voice deepening, acne, mood swings, irregular or absent menstrual cycles, and permanent infertility. They also carry risks of heart failure, stroke, and liver damage.
Experts say the pressure to achieve a muscular and lean body, fueled by social media and fitness influencers, drives some women to steroids. Access to unregulated steroids online makes it easier to obtain these drugs, but many products are fake or incorrectly dosed, increasing health risks.
Women face more challenges than men in finding safe steroid suppliers, making them vulnerable to harmful substances. Some female bodybuilders, like Paterson, choose natural competitions but acknowledge more women are openly discussing steroid use and harm reduction strategies.
Researchers stress the need for honest communication, better safety guidelines, and regulation of steroid products to reduce harm. They recommend health monitoring for users and warn steroids should be off-limits for young people who are still developing.
This trend highlights a growing public health concern as female bodybuilding and steroid use rise together worldwide.
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