What is Gynecomastia?

[01dragonslayer]

Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by development and enlargement of breast tissue is male subjects. It may occur temporarily in newborns and is experienced by half or more of adolescent boys during puberty, though 75% of these cases resolve themselves within 2 years. Gynecomastia is also a common side effect of steroid usage. Increasing the levels of androgens in the body causes estrogen levels to rise as well. This means that in addition to promoting classically male attributes such as large muscles and increased strength, feminine attributes such as breasts can occur.

Popular Perception of Gynecomastia​

The biggest negative result pertaining to gynecomastia is the perception by others. With the exception of minor pain or sensitivity, gynecomastia is largely an aesthetic concern. In the bodybuilding community, a high value is placed on appearance. This is especially true in the case of bodybuilding competitions. As a result, gynecomastia is addressed in a somewhat derogatory manner. Common terms used to describe gynecomastia are "moobs," (a portmanteau of "man boobs"), "bitch tits," or simply "gyno." It has been said that the worst fear of bodybuilders is gynecomastia.

An example of a bodybuilder with (left) and without (right) gynecomastia:

Gynecomastia Symptoms​

Gynecomastia occurs as a result of altering the ratio of androgens and estrogens in the male body. The most obvious feature is firm or rubbery chest tissue extending outwards from the nipple/areola. Growth may occur on one or both sides and can cause significant stress and anxiety. An increase in the diameter or a noticeable asymmetry of chest tissues can also indicate gynecomastia. In some cases gynecomastia can be mistaken for breast cancer by an uninformed observer. While gynecomastia is unpleasant and unsightly, it is also benign.

Prevention​

As previously mentioned, gynecomastia is a result of increased estrogen. In the case of bodybuilders and athletes, this can easily be brought about by prolonged steroid use. In order to prevent gynecomastia, as well as other side effects, steroid users employ anti estrogen and or aromatase inhibitor medications. Substances such as Clomid, Nolvadex and Femera are used to minimize production and effects of estrogenic compounds in the body. Because many of these medications were developed for the treatment of breast cancer, they are ideally suited to slowing or reversing growth of breast tissue.