DHEA is the most prevalent steroid hormone in the human body. Secreted in the adrenal glands of both men and women, DHEA metabolizes cholesterol to create sex hormones. The amount of DHEA in your body declines with age; however, certain medical conditions and possible lifestyle factors also contribute to lowered levels. Although DHEA is available as a dietary supplement for women, it can be disruptive to the complex balance of hormones in your body and should be taken only under the guidance of your physician.
Low DHEA
DHEA, known chemically as dehydroepiandrosterone, is considered a steroid precursor for its role in manufacturing androgens and estrogens, the male and female sex hormones. The production of DHEA in a woman's body begins to naturally decline around the age of 30, and levels steadily diminish over the lifespan. Loss of DHEA unrelated to aging may also accompany certain health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, AIDS, kidney disease, adrenal insufficiency and anorexia.
Symptoms
Low DHEA may produce a range of symptoms in women, including fatigue, muscle weakness, aching joints, diminished libido and depression. It is important to note, however, that low DHEA typically reflects a natural part of the aging process or indicates an underlying condition. As of 2011, there is not sufficient evidence to suggest that low DHEA by itself is necessarily responsible for associated symptoms.
Supplemental DHEA
Supplemental DHEA has proven effective in the treatment of depression and adrenal insufficiency and for labor induction, and may be useful for increasing libido, strengthening the walls of the vagina, preventing osteoporosis, promoting weight loss and improving the health of skin. Commercially available DHEA often makes unsubstantiated claims about its myriad benefits to women's health, with promises that the product will restore youth, boost energy and increase sexual appetite. While the accuracy of these claims remains a subject of scientific investigation, what remains unclear is whether DHEA supplements are actually effective in raising low DHEA levels.
Caution
While short-term use of supplemental DHEA likely poses little risk to your health, no studies have investigated its long-term effects. DHEA can increase the production of estrogen in your body, and possibly contribute to a higher risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancers. If you are pregnant or nursing, do not take DHEA. Lifestyle may play an important role in treating symptoms associated with low DHEA, and making sure that you follow a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise can help to reduce feelings of fatigue, moodiness and lacking energy.
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