DHEA-S: The Lab Test That Illuminates Adrenal and Hormone Health

When women tell me they feel “wired but tired,” can’t shed weight, or keep riding an emotional rollercoaster, my nurse brain immediately wonders about their adrenal glands. One of the most overlooked markers for adrenal function is DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate). Checking this single lab can give us powerful insight into how stress, hormones, and aging are affecting your energy, mood, and metabolism.

What Is DHEA-S?

DHEA-S is a hormone made by your adrenal glands and a small amount by your ovaries. It’s the storage form of DHEA, which your body converts into estrogen and testosterone as needed. Because DHEA-S levels stay steadier throughout the day (unlike cortisol, which spikes and dips), this test offers a clear snapshot of adrenal output.

Why Test DHEA-S?

Think of DHEA-S as a reflection of your overall “hormone reserve.” Low or high levels can point to:

  • Adrenal fatigue or chronic stress – low levels may suggest the adrenals are tapped out.

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – elevated levels can be a clue.

  • Age-related decline – DHEA-S naturally drops after your 30s, sometimes accelerating menopause symptoms.

  • Metabolic issues – both low and high levels may influence insulin sensitivity and body composition.

When to Consider Testing

Ask your provider about a DHEA-S test if you notice:

  • Persistent fatigue, even after good sleep

  • Unexplained weight gain, especially around the midsection

  • Mood swings or low libido

  • Irregular periods or signs of high androgens (acne, hair thinning)

How the Test Works

It’s a simple blood draw. No special fasting is required, but schedule it in the morning for the most consistent results.

Typical adult female ranges (these can vary by lab):

  • Ages 18–29: 65–380 mcg/dL

  • Ages 30–39: 45–270 mcg/dL

  • Ages 40–49: 32–240 mcg/dL

  • 50+: 26–200 mcg/dL

Always interpret results in the context of symptoms and other hormone labs like cortisol, progesterone, and testosterone.

Supporting Healthy DHEA-S Levels

While supplements exist, I rarely start there. First, focus on:

  • Stress management – consistent sleep, daily movement, mindfulness, or breathwork

  • Balanced nutrition – protein with each meal, colorful produce, healthy fats

  • Blood sugar stability – steady glucose helps steady hormones

If you do consider DHEA supplements, work closely with a healthcare provider—too much can push estrogen or testosterone too high.

Rebecca Paeth, BSN-RN

Nurse Rebecca Health Coaching

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Testing Options

If your healthcare provider isn’t running this panel, you can order a direct-to-consumer lab test. I recommend:

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate

Great option if you want a traditional lab draw without needing a doctor’s order.

Order from Health Labs

Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S) Blood Test

Easy ordering, flexible lab locations, multiple testing options, and clear results.

Order from Life Extension

Women's Hormones Test

Delivers an at-home DHEA-S finger-prick kit so you can collect your sample privately and ship it directly to the lab. Your at-home women’s hormones test will measure estradiol, progesterone, total testosterone, LH, FSH, and DHEA-S. 

Order from empowerDX

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. I only share lab options I genuinely trust and would recommend to my own patients, friends, and family.

Next Steps

Your DHEA-S level is one piece of the bigger hormone picture. Consider these follow-ups:

  • Review your results with a healthcare provider. They can interpret your DHEA-S number alongside other adrenal and sex-hormone labs (like cortisol, testosterone, or estradiol).

  • Track patterns over time. Re-testing every 3–6 months can reveal whether lifestyle changes, supplements, or medications are making a difference.

  • Support adrenal health daily. Prioritize quality sleep, balanced meals with protein and healthy fats, stress-management practices, and moderate exercise.

  • Explore root causes. Elevated or low DHEA-S can reflect issues such as chronic stress, PCOS, or adrenal fatigue—conditions best addressed with a personalized plan.

  • Book a free 60-minute consultation with Nurse Rebecca. We’ll review your labs together and create realistic next steps tailored to your lifestyle.

 

References

 
 

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