Could Your Fertility Troubles Be Related to Low DHEA?

 Infertility is a deeply challenging and emotionally charged issue that affects numerous individuals and couples across the United States.

Our award-winning team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, is focused on your overall health, emotional well-being, and success in helping you achieve your goal of pregnancy.

Our services include the most technically advanced fertility treatments available, delivered in a stress-free environment. We’re committed to patient comfort and safety while providing commonsense explanations for the testing and therapies we offer.

Here are some facts about the intricate relationship between low DHEA levels and infertility, its impact on reproductive health, and how we can help.

Understanding DHEA

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands. It serves as a precursor to other important hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. 

DHEA plays a vital role in various bodily functions, such as regulating the immune system, maintaining bone health, and supporting reproductive health.

The role of DHEA in reproductive health

DHEA is particularly relevant to reproductive health because your body converts it into testosterone and estrogen, both of which play crucial roles in the female and male reproductive systems.

In women, DHEA is converted to androgens, which can then be converted into estrogen. Estrogen is essential for ovarian follicle development, the quality of eggs, and the thickness of the uterine lining.

In men, DHEA is converted to testosterone, which is necessary for sperm production and maturation.

The connection between low DHEA levels and infertility

Studies suggest that low DHEA levels may have a negative impact on fertility for both men and women.

In women, low DHEA levels have been associated with diminished ovarian reserve, which refers to a reduced quantity and quality of eggs available for fertilization. It can lead to difficulties in conceiving and an increased risk of miscarriage.

On the other hand, excess DHEA levels in women may contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a leading cause of female infertility.  

In men, low DHEA levels have been linked to impaired sperm production, reduced sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology.

Potential causes of low DHEA levels

Several factors can contribute to low DHEA levels, including age, chronic stress, certain medical conditions, and the use of certain medications.

DHEA levels tend to naturally decline with age, especially after age 30. Chronic stress can also affect DHEA production, as stress hormones can divert resources away from DHEA synthesis.

Additionally, conditions such as adrenal insufficiency, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications like corticosteroids may lower DHEA levels.

Treatment options

Your experience at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center includes a thorough infertility evaluation. Should those results show low DHEA levels, Dr. Smith may recommend supplementation to restore optimal hormone levels.

DHEA supplementation has shown promising results in improving ovarian function and fertility outcomes in women with diminished ovarian reserve. Similarly, men with low DHEA levels can benefit from DHEA supplementation to enhance sperm production and quality.

But DHEA supplementation should be done under the guidance of a health care professional. Regular monitoring of hormone levels is crucial to ensure optimal results and avoid potential side effects.

While the relationship between low DHEA levels and infertility is an area of ongoing research, DHEA plays a significant role in reproductive health for both men and women. Infertility is a complex issue, and addressing it often requires a multifaceted approach tailored to individual needs.

Schedule an evaluation at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center today by calling our Parker, Colorado,  office or requesting an appointment online. We’re here to help you achieve your dream of parenthood.