Winstrol Side Effects for Women

Winstrol, brand name of Stanozolol, is an anabolic steroid derived from testosterone. Doctors prescribe Winstrol to treat a range of conditions including anemia, osteoporosis and angioedema. Winstrol can cause side effects among women, some of which are irreversible.

Acne

Acne is a common side effect of Winstrol. Winstrol increases activity of the skin oil glands, so the pores clog more easily, increasing the buildup of bacteria and formation of pimples.

Deepened Voice

The development of a deeper voice is another side effect of Winstrol. Voice deepening is caused by growth of the vocal cords. This side effect is often reversed by going off Winstrol.

Body Hair Growth

Winstrol increases the levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which stimulates abnormal hair growth in women. Increased DHT levels also can cause male pattern baldness in women.

Body Modifications

Women will often become leaner and more muscular with Winstrol. This includes developing a more masculine physique with fewer curves and shrunken breasts. Winstrol can also cause clitoromegaly, or an enlarged clitoris.

Irregular Periods

Winstrol inhibits the body from producing and releasing normal levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulation hormone (FSH), estrogen and progesterone. This can result in irregularities of the menstrual cycle, including a prolonged follicular phase and shortened luteal phase. These irregularities often return to normal a few months after Winstrol is stopped.

Aggression

Women can also experience increased aggression with Winstrol. According to a study by Aaron Gruber in "Psychotherapy Psychosomatic," 76 percent of women taking an anabolic steroid had at least one adverse psychological effect.