The question of whether steroids can be transmitted between sexual partners is a concern, particularly with the varied applications of these substances. The steroids in question are anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), which are synthetic variations of the male hormone testosterone. While they are used for medical purposes, they are also used to enhance muscle mass and physical performance. Understanding how these compounds can be transferred unintentionally is important for the health of both the user and their partner.
Mechanisms of Steroid Transmission
The primary mechanism for the sexual transmission of steroids is through direct skin-to-skin contact with topical preparations. These forms, which include gels, creams, and lotions, are applied directly to the user’s skin and are absorbed into the bloodstream. If a partner comes into close physical contact with the application area before the product has fully dried, the active steroid ingredient can transfer to their skin.
This risk is almost exclusively associated with topical steroids. The concentration of the hormone on the skin’s surface following application is high enough that physical touch can lead to a meaningful transfer. The amount transferred depends on the area of contact, time since application, and whether any barriers like clothing were present. During sexual activity, the extensive skin contact involved increases the probability of this transfer.
Other forms of AAS do not present the same risk of transmission through sexual contact. Injectable steroids are administered directly into the muscle, and oral steroids are ingested. In these cases, the compounds are metabolized within the user’s body and are not present on the skin in concentrations that would allow for transfer. While trace amounts might be present in bodily fluids like sweat, the levels are generally considered too low to cause hormonal effects in a partner.
Potential Health Risks of Unintentional Exposure
Unintentional exposure to anabolic-androgenic steroids can lead to significant health consequences, particularly for female partners. Because these compounds mimic testosterone, they can cause the development of male characteristics in women, a process called virilization. The symptoms of virilization can be distressing and may include the onset of acne, particularly on the back and face, and hirsutism, which is the growth of dark, coarse hair on the face, chest, and back.
Beyond surface-level changes, secondary exposure can disrupt a woman’s endocrine system. This can lead to irregularities in the menstrual cycle, including missed periods or changes in flow. One of the more permanent potential effects is the deepening of the voice, which may not be reversible even after the exposure stops. For women who are pregnant, exposure is especially dangerous, as the steroids can cross the placenta and affect the normal development of a fetus.
While the effects are most pronounced in women, male partners can also be affected by unintentional exposure. The introduction of external hormones can interfere with the body’s natural testosterone production, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances. Open communication about AAS use is necessary to prevent these unintended health outcomes.
Prevention and Risk Reduction Strategies
Minimizing the risk of unintentional steroid transmission involves careful practices by the person using topical products. A fundamental step is to apply the steroid gel or cream to areas of the body that will be covered by clothing, such as the shoulders or upper arms. This creates a physical barrier that prevents direct skin-to-skin contact with a partner. It is also important to allow the product to dry completely before dressing.
After applying the product, the user must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water. This simple action removes any residual steroid from the hands, preventing transfer through touch. Before engaging in any intimate physical contact or sexual activity, showering can effectively wash off any remaining product from the application site, further reducing the risk of exposing a partner.
Transparent communication between partners is a large part of prevention. The person using the topical steroid should inform their partner about their use, including where and when the product is applied. This allows both individuals to take precautions, such as avoiding contact with the application area for several hours after use. These proactive measures can effectively manage and mitigate the risks of secondary exposure.