DHEA is a hormone that occurs naturally in your body. The adrenal gland produces a lesser amount of DHEA as you age. In most people, the production of DHEA gradually declines after the age of 25, leading some people to believe this hormone may play a role in anti-aging, although more research is necessary to support these claims. Like many drugs and supplements, DHEA is not suitable for pregnant women.
DHEA
Wild yams contain disogenin, a substance that laboratories use to make synthetic DHEA. Your body makes androgens and estrogens, hormones that control sexual function and play a role in reproduction, from DHEA. This supplement may help treat certain conditions, such as lupus, adrenal insufficiency, obesity, osteoporosis and depression, although the available research is limited and sometimes contradictory. There is no evidence suggesting DHEA is useful or even safe during pregnancy.
Risks
DHEA supplements can increases the levels of androgens and may be harmful to your developing baby. Medline Plus warns pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid this supplement. DHEA, as well as the other hormones your body produces from DHEA, can cross the placenta and may affect genital development in the fetus.
Healthy Pregnancy
Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as vitamins and herbal remedies, may affect the health of your pregnancy and your growing baby. A pre-pregnancy checkup allows you to plan for a healthy pregnancy before you begin trying to conceive. This appointment provides an opportunity to discuss your medications and supplements with your doctor and allows you to make any necessary lifestyle changes that can help boost your chances of a successful pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend vitamin supplements and suggest certain dietary changes to provide the optimal nutrition necessary during pregnancy.
Precautions
Avoid taking DHEA without your doctor's recommendation, especially if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. In addition to being unsafe during pregnancy, DHEA supplements may make certain conditions worse, including liver problems, mood disorders and diabetes. This hormonal supplement may interact with certain prescription medications, including anastrozole, fulvestrant and exemestane.
