Will taking steroids negatively effect wound healing?

Maybe: This depends on the type of "steroid" you are describing. Steroids from inhalers or maybe skin creams are not likely to affect healing. However higher doses of oral steroid medications can negatively affect and delay wound healing. Temporarily taking added vitamin a can reverse this steroid effect on wound healing if ok with your doctor.

Absolutely: Steroids negatively affect wound healing by inhibiting the inflammatory response needed to start the healing process. Additionally exogenous or external steroids (even topical) will cause the wound and patient to be susceptible to opportunistic bacteria that may increase the risk of infection.

Corticosteroids yes: Depends on the type of steroid. I assume you are referring to corticosteroids (cortisone, prednisone, solumedrol, (methylprednisolone) depo-medrol etc.) these can have a very negative affect or even prevent wound healing. Anabolic steroids (human growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, and testosterone) however build "lean body mass" and increase proyein production necessary for wound healing.

Probably: Theere are different types of steroids and all have risks and benefits. Anabolic steroids like the performance enhancing ones used by athletes actually build up tissue. They are sometimes prescribed to malnourished patients with wounds. Corticosteroids like Prednisone definitely slow wound healing. If their use is necessary a short course of vit a can help counteract negative effects on wounds.