What side effects can steroids cause?

Steroids are synthetic hormones that mimic androgens produced in the body. Testosterone in particular can cause the most severe side effects, especially when abused or used incorrectly. In men, these can include increased acne, increased LDL (bad) and decreased HDL (good) cholesterol, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, increased soft breast tissue in men; temporary testicle shrinkage due to bodies shut down of testosterone and accelerated baldness for men who are genetically predisposed. For women, side effects include increased body hair, a permanent deepening of the voice, an enlarged clitoris and disruption of menstrual cycles.