The quest for a muscular, toned body has made gym culture a defining trend among young adults. But behind the mirror selfies and protein shakes lies a growing health concern. Nearly 10–15 per cent of male infertility patients report excessive intake of protein powders, steroids, or energy drinks, which are directly linked to poor sperm quality and hormonal imbalance. Women using steroids or extreme workout regimens to build muscle or lose fat can experience irregular periods, hormonal disturbances, and fertility issues. Everyone must exercise caution.
The gym culture is booming, but so are cases of fertility problems linked to unsafe fitness practices. “Unsupervised workouts and misuse of anabolic steroids artificially raise testosterone levels, disrupting the body’s natural hormone balance. This can reduce sperm production, alter sperm motility, and even cause testicular shrinkage in the long term. Heavy lower-body workouts and overheating during long gym sessions can negatively impact sperm count by raising scrotal temperature, a factor often overlooked by gym enthusiasts. The overuse of gym supplements without medical or dietary guidance can further worsen these effects. 10–15 per cent of male infertility patients admit to overusing protein supplements, steroids, or energy drinks, which directly damage sperm count and quality,” said Dr Mandavi Rai, senior consultant, Fertility Health Specialist & Reproductive Medicine, Motherhood Fertility & IVF, Noida Sec 48 & Noida Extension.
“The obsession with quick physical transformation is pushing many young fitness enthusiasts towards risky behaviour. Steroid-based supplements and synthetic testosterone boosters may claim to produce faster results in terms of muscle gain; however, these products run the risk of interrupting the body`s natural hormone rhythm and potentially diminishing reproductive health,” advises Dr. Aakriti Batra, fertility specialist, Nova IVF Fertility. Rohini, Delhi-NCR
“Anabolic steroid use in men tricks the brain into thinking that testosterone levels are appropriate and often leads to a drastic drop in the body`s natural stimulation of testosterone levels, which in turn reduces sperm formation, lowers sperm count, and can cause irreversible testicular atrophy over the course of a few months of steroid use. Likewise, women who are exposed to these synthetic hormones will experience irregular cycles (or suppress them altogether) and may lose egg quality. What starts as a method to improve physical fitness may quietly transform into significant long-term reproductive harm.”
Dr Mandavi further added, “It’s not just men who face these issues. Women using steroids or extreme workout regimens to build muscle or lose fat can experience irregular periods, hormonal disturbances, and fertility issues. The artificial hormones in anabolic products interfere with ovulation and natural reproductive cycles.”
However, the expert adds, “Gymming, when done in moderation and under supervision, remains highly beneficial. The key is avoiding performance enhancers, artificial boosters, and excessive protein intake. Tips for safe fitness are following a structured workout plan under a certified trainer. Use only natural proteins like milk, eggs, pulses, and nuts. Avoid steroids, fat burners, or energy boosters. Stay hydrated and maintain adequate rest between workouts. Healthy fitness habits should build strength, not silently compromise the body’s natural balance and fertility.”
Dr. Aakriti Batra added, “Fitness is supposed to promote health, not sabotage it. The true test of fitness is ultimately whether the individual can engage in a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, guided exercise, and recovery. Artificial manipulation of hormones for aesthetics or performance will ultimately create an imbalance in your system. In fact, restoring natural testosterone and fertility can take years after stopping steroid use. Real health comes from discipline, not chemical enhancement.”
