SARMs and steroids marketed as 'female-friendly' still act on androgen receptors. Voice and hair changes can be permanent.
Virilising effects
Androgen exposure in women can cause voice deepening, facial hair growth, clitoral enlargement and menstrual disruption.
Voice changes in particular are frequently irreversible.
Limited research
Most PED research involves men. Women's specific risks, including fertility and mental health effects, are under-studied.
'Mild' compounds have not been shown to be safe in women.
Getting support
Early voice or menstrual changes are a reason to stop and seek advice. Clinicians can assess hormones without judgement.
In short
- No androgen is proven safe for women.
- Voice changes can be permanent.
- Early symptoms warrant assessment.
Cited studies
These studies provide context for the article; findings may not apply to non-medical use or products sold online.
Börjesson A, Gårevik N, Dahl ML, et al. (2016). Recruitment to doping and help-seeking behavior of eight female AAS users. Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy.
Read the study ↗Huang G, Basaria S. (2018). Do anabolic-androgenic steroids have performance-enhancing effects in female athletes?. Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology.
Read the study ↗
Unfamiliar terminology is defined in our glossary. How we research and grade evidence is set out in our editorial standards, and errors can be reported through corrections.
This article is educational. It is not medical advice, a dosing recommendation, or an endorsement of use. Speak with a qualified medical practitioner about your circumstances.