DHEA-S Test

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

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:

Age years

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
Sex	Age	Reference range (umol/l)	Relative scale
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

DHEA-S: what this test 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.

DHEA-S: why this value 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.

DHEA-S: when is testing worthwhile?

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

DHEA-S: symptoms of a high or low value

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.

DHEA-S: what to do about an abnormal value

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.

DHEA-S: lifestyle and this value

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.

DHEA-S: 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.

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