Can Weight Training Cause Gynecomastia in Young Men?

Can weight training cause gynecomastia in women?

Hello, doctor.
I started weight training at the age of 19, and after six months of training, I began to notice a lump-like formation in my breast at the age of 20, which was painful to touch.
I went to a local clinic, where the doctor suggested it might be inflammation.
However, after finishing the anti-inflammatory medication, the symptoms persisted, so I transferred to a larger hospital for a surgical consultation.
The doctor performed a brief examination and stated that it was not breast cancer.
Upon learning that I was weight training, he told me it would go away with continued training and asked me to leave without further explanation.
After researching online, I found that it could be a symptom of gynecomastia.
As I continued training, the condition did not improve; in fact, it became more pronounced.
I suspect this might be related to increased testosterone levels from leg workouts.
Can I go to an internal medicine department at the hospital for further evaluation? Will this condition resolve on its own?

Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/27

Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine

Hello, it's rare to hear that weight training can cause gynecomastia in men.
At least in my understanding, I haven't seen it.
I suggest consulting a breast surgeon.

Reply Date: 2024/03/27

More Info

Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of breast tissue in males, can indeed be a concern for young men who engage in weight training. It is important to understand that gynecomastia is often caused by an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen levels in the body. In young men, this condition can be particularly common during puberty, but it can also occur in those who are actively weight training, especially if certain factors are at play.

When you engage in weight training, particularly with heavy lifting, your body does produce more testosterone. However, this increase in testosterone can sometimes lead to a relative increase in estrogen levels, especially if there is an underlying condition or if the body converts testosterone to estrogen through a process called aromatization. This can lead to the development of gynecomastia. Additionally, certain supplements or anabolic steroids, which some individuals may use to enhance their training results, can also contribute to hormonal imbalances that lead to gynecomastia.

In your case, since you began noticing symptoms after starting weight training, it is possible that the changes in your body’s hormonal profile could be contributing to your condition. The fact that you have experienced pain and the presence of lumps suggests that it is worth investigating further. While some cases of gynecomastia can resolve on their own, especially if they are related to hormonal changes during puberty, persistent symptoms should not be ignored.

It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably an endocrinologist or a physician specializing in men's health. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests to assess your hormone levels. This will help determine whether your gynecomastia is due to hormonal imbalances, the use of supplements, or other underlying conditions.

In terms of treatment, if the gynecomastia is confirmed and is causing you discomfort or psychological distress, there are several options available. These can range from monitoring the condition to medical treatments that address hormonal imbalances, or in some cases, surgical options to remove excess breast tissue.

In conclusion, while weight training itself does not directly cause gynecomastia, the hormonal changes associated with intense training and other factors can contribute to its development. It is essential to seek medical advice to understand the underlying causes of your symptoms and to explore appropriate treatment options. Remember, addressing any concerns early on can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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