Perimenopausal women taking steroids to combat hormonal changes are especially at risk of extra weight gain, according to Dr. Nusbaum. Not only does fat distribution change during 'the change' itself, but steroids used to rebalance hormones can also cause extra fat deposits specifically in your stomach area, according to the Hospital for Special Surgery. This excess fat storage also applies to people using steroids to help other health issues, such as inflammation, Dr. Nusbaum says.