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Growth hormone (GH) is a major regulator of growth, somatic development and body composition. Sex steroids can act centrally by regulating GH secretion and peripherally modulating GH responsiveness. This review addresses data of potential clinical relevance on how sex steroids modulate GH secretion and action, aiming to increase the understanding of sex steroid/GH interactions and leading to improved management of patients. Sex steroids regulate GH secretion directly as well as indirectly through IGF‐I modulation. Testosterone stimulates GH secretion centrally, an effect dependent on prior aromatization to oestrogen. Oestrogen stimulates GH secretion indirectly by reducing IGF‐I feedback inhibition. Whether oestrogen stimulates GH secretion centrally in females is unresolved.

 Gonadal steroids modify the metabolic effects of GH. Testosterone amplifies GH stimulation of IGF‐I, sodium retention …