DHEA: the Secret to Improving Your Fertility?

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced by our bodies, is gaining attention for its potential benefits in boosting fertility, playing a crucial role in overall hormonal balance while showing promise in improving reproductive health, particularly in women facing challenges with fertility. This article delves into what DHEA is, how it impacts women's health, who can benefit from its supplementation, and the considerations surrounding its use.

What is DHEA?

• DHEA, or Dehydroepiandrosterone, is a steroid hormone that serves as a building block for other essential hormones like oestrogen and testosterone and is produced primarily by the adrenal glands, with smaller amounts excreted from the ovaries and testes. 

• DHEA levels naturally peak in early adulthood and gradually decline with age. DHEA supports a range of bodily functions, including immune response, metabolism, and sexual health. 

• In recent years, it has also been studied for its potential to enhance fertility, particularly in women with diminished ovarian reserve or those undergoing fertility treatments.

DHEA and its impact on women's health

• In fertility, DHEA is important because it can improve ovarian function by supporting the development of follicles—small sacs in the ovaries where eggs grow and mature.

• By enhancing the health and number of these follicles, DHEA may help improve both the quality and quantity of eggs produced.

Who can benefit from DHEA supplementation?

• DHEA supplementation can be particularly beneficial for women facing certain fertility challenges. Women with diminished ovarian reserve, premature ovarian ageing, or those over the age of 35 who are experiencing difficulties conceiving may find DHEA useful.

• Research suggests that DHEA can help improve ovarian response in IVF treatments, leading to a higher number of mature eggs retrieved and, consequently, better chances of successful fertilisation and pregnancy. 

• Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), who often have imbalanced androgen levels, may also benefit from DHEA as it can help normalise hormone levels and improve ovulatory function.

Dosage and usage of DHEA

• The appropriate dosage of DHEA can vary depending on individual needs and medical advice, but a common dosage for women looking to enhance fertility is 25 mg taken three times daily. 

• It is typically recommended to start supplementation a few months before beginning fertility treatments to allow DHEA levels to build up and exert their effects on the ovaries.

• However, because DHEA can affect hormone levels significantly, it is important to consult your healthcare provider before taking DHEA. Enquire Now.

Potential side effects and considerations

While DHEA supplementation can offer benefits, it also comes with potential side effects and considerations that need to be carefully managed.

1) Possible side effects

• The most common side effects associated with DHEA include oily skin, acne, hair loss, and mood changes. These side effects are typically related to the increase in androgen levels that DHEA supplementation can cause.

• Some women may also experience menstrual irregularities or changes in libido. It is important to monitor these side effects and adjust the dosage or discontinue use if necessary under medical supervision.

2) Who should avoid taking DHEA?

• DHEA supplementation is not suitable for everyone. Women who have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or ovarian cancer, should avoid DHEA due to its potential to increase oestrogen levels.

• Additionally, those with conditions like hyperandrogenism, where androgen levels are already elevated, should not take DHEA. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid DHEA, as its effects on pregnancy and infant health are not well understood. 

3) DHEA and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs)

• DHEA is often used in conjunction with assisted reproductive technologies like IVF to improve outcomes. Studies have shown that DHEA can help increase the number of eggs retrieved during an IVF cycle, improve embryo quality, and enhance the chances of implantation and pregnancy. 

• By improving ovarian response, DHEA may also reduce the need for high doses of stimulating medications, which can minimise the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). 

• For women with a poor ovarian reserve, DHEA can be a valuable addition to their fertility treatment plan, offering hope for better outcomes.

Lifestyle and dietary considerations to optimise DHEA levels

• While DHEA supplementation is an effective way to boost levels, certain lifestyle and dietary choices can also help optimise natural DHEA production. Regular exercise, especially resistance and high-intensity interval training, can help maintain healthy DHEA levels.

• Stress management is crucial, as chronic stress can deplete DHEA levels over time. A diet rich in healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and fatty fish, can support hormone production.

• Additionally, ensuring adequate sleep and avoiding overconsumption of alcohol and caffeine can help maintain balanced DHEA levels naturally.

Conclusion

DHEA represents a promising avenue for enhancing fertility, particularly for women facing challenges such as diminished ovarian reserve or those undergoing ARTs like IVF. However, as with any supplement, it is crucial to approach DHEA use with careful consideration and medical guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.

If you are considering DHEA supplementation to boost your fertility, consult our fertility specialists at Thomson Fertility Centre for personalised advice and support.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a fertility specialist at Thomson Fertility Centre today.

FAQ

Can men benefit from DHEA supplementation for fertility? 

• Yes, men can benefit from DHEA supplementation, particularly if they have low testosterone levels or poor sperm quality. DHEA can help improve overall hormone balance, potentially boosting sperm production and motility, which are crucial factors in male fertility.

• However, men should only take DHEA under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as excessive use can lead to side effects like aggression, hair loss, or prostate issues. 

Is DHEA safe for long-term use? 

• Long-term use of DHEA can be safe, but it requires careful monitoring. Prolonged supplementation may lead to hormonal imbalances, such as elevated testosterone or oestrogen levels, which can cause side effects like acne, hair loss, or mood changes. 

• It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and duration of use.

How quickly can one expect to see results from DHEA supplementation? 

• The timeline for seeing results from DHEA supplementation can vary depending on individual factors like age, baseline hormone levels, and the reason for use. Typically, women may begin to notice improvements in ovarian function, egg quality, and hormone levels within 2-3 months of consistent use. 

• However, it is important to be patient and maintain regular communication with a healthcare provider, who can monitor progress and adjust the dosage as needed to optimise outcomes.

Can DHEA improve egg quality in women over 40? 

• Yes, DHEA has been shown to improve egg quality in women over 40, a demographic often facing age-related fertility decline. DHEA helps by enhancing ovarian response, increasing the number of healthy eggs retrieved during fertility treatments like IVF, and improving the chances of successful fertilisation and pregnancy.