Women and PEDs: Understanding the Risk Profile

Anabolics

2 Dec

First off: I do not condone the loss of femininity in the pursuit of a bodybuilding trophy, and don’t agree with the direction it’s going. Most athletes blindly follow their coaches' protocols, not knowing the risks associated with it, while half the coaches out there don’t know what they’re doing. If you decide to explore hormonal supplements to reach your goals, you must own that decision. It is your responsibility to understand the risks and the protocols.

If your diet and training aren't already perfect, none of this matters. For those ready to step into this world, here is an overview of commonly used anabolics and their specific risks.

What is Virilization

Virilization is the development of masculine traits, and it is the primary concern for women. This includes deepening of the voice, clitoral enlargement, and increased body hair. Once these side effects occur, many are permanent.

Common Compounds

1. Anavar (Oxandrolone) This is the most common choice. It promotes lean muscle with minimal side effects and rarely causes water retention.

Virilization Risk: Low. Side effects are minimal at standard doses.
Protocol: 5-10mg per day.

2. Primobolan (Methenolone) Primo does not convert to estrogen, making it excellent for cutting or lean bulking without water retention.

Virilization Risk: Low. It is non-aromatizing and generally mild.
Protocol (Oral): 50-75mg per day.
Protocol (Injectable): 50-150mg per week.

3. Turinabol (Tbol) Tbol is excellent for muscle "quality" rather than mass. It reduces SHBG, which allows more testosterone to remain active in the body.

Virilization Risk: Low.
Protocol: 5-10mg per day.

4. Anadrol (Oxymetholone) Often used for bulking to rapidly increase strength and size. Surprisingly, medical doses for women are often way higher (at least 50mg) than bodybuilding doses.

Virilization Risk: Low to Moderate.
Protocol: Start at 12.5mg per day.The best risk to reward ratio is typically at 25mg. Don’t exceed 50mg per day.
Warning: Liver toxic.

5. Winstrol (Stanozolol) Popular for prep because it provides a "dry" look and clears the system quickly.

Virilization Risk: Moderate. It is more androgenic than Anavar, and side effects vary widely among individuals.
Protocol: 2.5-10mg per day.
Note: It can cause dry joints.

6. Testosterone Propionate (Test P) The preferred ester for women because it clears the system quickly. If sides occur, you can stop, and it leaves your system fast.

Virilization Risk: Moderate. Monitor blood levels.
Protocol: 3-6mg every day or 6-12mg every other day.

7. NPP (Nandrolone Phenylpropionate) A shorter-acting version of Deca. It is highly anabolic with reduced androgenic activity.

Virilization Risk: Moderate to High. While less androgenic than testosterone, it is more aggressive than Primo.
Protocol: 5-8mg every day or 10-16mg every other day.

8. Trenbolone Acetate Highly androgenic, probably the strongest drug available.

Virilization Risk: Severe. Tren for females is too harsh and not needed for female competition.

Final Note Start with a slow and low approach. Monitor your body, and if virilization symptoms appear (scratchy throat, hair growth), stop immediately. Find a good reputable source, make sure it’s third party tested.