Precise regulation of specific hormone levels is required for optimal sperm production in mammals, as summarized in the figure above. Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic variants of testosterone that are sometimes abused by persons who desire to enhance their athletic performance or alter their physique. Assuming that AAS function in the same way as naturally occurring testosterone, it is most likely that long-term abuse of AAS would

Since AAS behaves the same way as testosterone, we expect similar interactions. Testosterone inhibits the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary. This results in less LH and FSH, which results in less stimulation of the Leydig cells and Sertoli cells. This further results in less stimulation of the germ cells. Ultimately, this leads to reduced sperm production.