DHEA is a hormone secreted in the adrenal glands of both men and women. Endogenous DHEA -- that produced in the body -- typically begins to decline after the age of 30. However, supplemental DHEA is available over the counter in many pharmacies and health food stores, and may prove beneficial to women's health. As DHEA is known to interact with certain medications and health conditions, be sure to consult your doctor prior to taking a supplement.
DHEA Levels and Health
DHEA, or dehydroepiandosterone, is the steroid precursor to androgens and estrogens, the male and female sex hormones. Levels of DHEA typically peak in your 20s and then fall steadily over the course of your lifetime. In addition to the natural, age-related decline in DHEA, decreased levels may also be symptomatic of certain health conditions, such as anorexia, type 2 diabetes, AIDS, adrenal insufficiency and advanced kidney disease. Additionally several medications, including corticosteroids, insulin and opiates, are associated with diminished levels. Low DHEA levels may produce symptoms of fatigue, reduced muscle mass, decreased bone density, low libido, joint pain and depression.
DHEA Supplementation for Women
Supplemental DHEA may offer a number of benefits to women's health and well-being, however commercial products often make unsubstantiated claims. Among post-menopausal women, DHEA may ease symptoms related to estrogen loss, help to increase bone density and strengthen the walls of the vagina. According to the National Institutes of Health, DHEA may help to stimulate libido, improve sexual functioning and facilitate weight loss, and has also been proven as an effective aid in relieving depression and fatigue. Current research is investigating the effectiveness of DHEA in improving memory and helping to treat and prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Contraindications
While DHEA may be effective in the treatment of certain conditions, as of 2011 there is insufficient research to support the range of benefits commonly touted by commercial companies. The National Institutes of Health caution that taking DHEA for extended periods of time may produce hormonal changes in women, and possibly affect the menstrual cycle as well as stimulate facial hair growth, acne and voice deepening. DHEA can also interact with pre-existing health conditions, and among individuals with mood disorders, it may induce manic and sexually inappropriate behaviors. Because DHEA is closely related to sex hormones, supplemental doses can adversely affect estrogen-related health conditions, such as cancers of the breast and reproductive system.
Lifestyle Considerations
Nurse practitioner and women's health advocate, Marcelle Pick, advises that DHEA is also affected by lifestyle, diet and stress, and that low levels may be related to adrenal gland imbalances. She emphasizes stress reduction, improved diet and adequate rest as essential to adrenal health and restored DHEA levels, and suggests that increased exercise and sexual activity may help to relieve some of the symptoms associated with declining DHEA.
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