Skip to main content
Your session has expired. Reloading...
Hormones

DHEA-S

DHEA-S serves as a precursor to oestrogen and testosterone in women. Monitoring supports understanding of adrenal health, hormonal balance, and age-related changes.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Your reference range
umol/l
0,5 10,1 umol/l
Reference ranges by group, in umol/l
Female · 21–30 years 0,6–10,1 umol/l
0,6 10,1
Female · 31–40 years 0,5–7,8 umol/l
0,5 7,8
Female · 41–50 years < 6,2 umol/l
6,2
Female · 51–60 years < 5,8 umol/l
5,8
Female · 61–70 years < 3,5 umol/l
3,5
Female · 71–80 years < 3 umol/l
3
Female · 81–90 years < 2,7 umol/l
2,7
0,5 10,1 umol/l

Referentiewaarden per leeftijdsdecennium en geslacht, zoals gepubliceerd in de labgids van het Maastricht UMC+. Bij de banden die als "< waarde" zijn gepubliceerd (vrouwen vanaf 41 jaar, mannen vanaf 51 jaar) geeft de bron géén ondergrens: een lage uitslag krijgt daarom geen oordeel, want de bron doet er geen uitspraak over. DHEA-S daalt sterk met de leeftijd en is niet cyclusafhankelijk. Er zijn geen banden onder de 21 jaar of boven de 90 jaar. Let op: laboratoria en meetmethoden verschillen aanzienlijk in de referentiewaarden die zij voor DHEA-S hanteren — zowel in de onder- als in de bovengrenzen. Houd daarom altijd de referentiewaarde aan die op uw eigen uitslag staat.

Source: Maastricht UMC+, Centraal Diagnostisch Laboratorium Reference population: MUMC+ labgids (Maastricht UMC+, referentiewaarden DHEA-S)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

What It Measures

This test measures the blood concentration of DHEA-S, the sulfated storage form of DHEA. Because DHEA-S levels remain stable throughout the day, it is a reliable indicator of adrenal androgen production.

Why It Matters

DHEA-S imbalances in women may affect skin, hair, menstrual regularity, and overall hormonal harmony. Elevated levels could suggest androgen excess conditions. Consult your healthcare provider.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended when evaluating adrenal function, investigating symptoms of androgen excess or deficiency, or assessing age-related hormonal decline.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people may experience chronic fatigue, decreased libido, reduced muscle mass, or low mood when DHEA-S levels are below the expected range. These symptoms could suggest adrenal depletion.

High Levels

Some people may experience acne, oily skin, excessive hair growth, or hair thinning when DHEA-S levels are elevated. In women, this could suggest an androgen-related hormonal imbalance.

Recommendations

Female

If Low

Low DHEA-S may indicate adrenal insufficiency. Consider comprehensive adrenal evaluation if symptomatic.

If High

High DHEA-S may indicate PCOS or adrenal disorders. Consider PCOS evaluation, especially with irregular periods or hirsutism.

Lifestyle Tips

Adequate sleep, regular moderate exercise, and effective stress management may support healthy DHEA-S production. Avoiding chronic overtraining and ensuring sufficient recovery time could also be beneficial. Discuss supplementation only with your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does DHEA-S decline with age?
Yes, DHEA-S peaks in early adulthood and declines steadily. Your healthcare provider can assess whether your level is appropriate for your age.
Is DHEA-S the same as DHEA?
DHEA-S is the sulfated storage form of DHEA, with more stable blood levels. It is preferred for testing because it does not fluctuate throughout the day.
Can I supplement DHEA-S?
DHEA supplements are available but should only be used under medical supervision, as they can affect other hormone levels. Consult your healthcare provider first.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

DHEA-S

€42,-