
Originally Posted by
MuscleInk
I applaud you for trying to understand the short and long term risks associated with steroid use. There is probably more misinformation on the internet than correct information, but this forum is one of, if not THE best resources available. Many members here are well versed in the risks of steroid use.
The way I see it, the decision to use steroids is his. I understand your concerns and those you specifically referenced, however, he is old enough to make the decision for himself. Steroids certainly carry some inherent risks, including severe cardiac risks but, not everyone is equally prone to the risks and some of the more severe risks are often associated with abusive patterns of use (long durations of use, less time between "cycles", using multiple compounds at once).
To your specific concerns regarding erectile dysfunction and infertility, yes, ED is a common effect of steroid use and can occur for many different reasons. It is generally treatable and may be less of a concern when the user is properly educated on the risks of steroids and how to minimize said risks. With respect to infertility, yes, steroids can impact fertility, but again, not everyone is equally vulnerable. Some guys in fact, have gotten their girl friends or wives pregnant while they were using steroids as well as after steroid use. There are no guarantees when it comes to steroids and everyone responds differently. I guess the only guarantee is that if you abuse them, you significantly increase the risk of short and/or long term problems.
The other comment I have is that it seems your relationship is in the early stages. Many of the concerns you have may never become issues you need to worry about. Men, unlike women, aren't thinking long term at the start of a relationship. We are pretty simple. We are thinking about hot women and fun in the bedroom. Women, while good looks may matter, are thinking longer term (especially more mature women) - having a partner you connect with, financial stability, intimacy, a considerate and caring husband, a role model to your children, etc. Men eventually come around, but for many of us, we aren't thinking long term at the beginning of the relationship. I think you may be worrying about some of these things prematurely. He may not be Mr. Right. He may only be Mr. Rightnow. I think it's a little early to say, but that's just my personal opinion based on the limited details and history you provide.
Ultimately, you need to decide if you are comfortable with his steroid use. Let him make his own decisions, but if its something you think you cannot deal with, it will make it impossible to have a meaningful relationship.