The Role of DHEA in Women’s Health
**The Role of DHEA in Women’s Health: A Simple Guide**
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone your body naturally produces, mainly in the adrenal glands. It plays a big role in energy, mood, and overall health—especially as women age. Here’s how it works and why it matters.
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### **What Does DHEA Do?**
DHEA acts like a “parent hormone” that helps create other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. Think of it as fuel for your hormonal system. Levels peak in your mid-20s but drop by about 10% every decade[1]. By age 75, most women have 80% less DHEA than they did at 25[1]. This decline can affect everything from energy to bone strength.
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### **Key Benefits for Women**
1. **Boosts Energy & Mood**: Low DHEA is linked to fatigue and mood swings. Supplementing may help you feel more alert and emotionally balanced by supporting brain chemicals tied to happiness[2][4].
2. **Supports Menopause Symptoms**: Vaginal dryness or pain during sex? Studies show DHEA suppositories can improve lubrication and reduce discomfort by up to 15%[1][5]. It might also ease skin thinning caused by lower estrogen after menopause[1][4].
3. **Strengthens Bones & Muscles**: As estrogen drops post-menopause, bones weaken. DHEA helps maintain bone density and muscle mass, lowering osteoporosis risk[2][4].
4. **Enhances Immunity**: It ramps up natural killer cells—your body’s defense against infections—which is especially helpful as immunity weakens with age[2][4].
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### **When Might You Need It?**
– **Adrenal Fatigue**: Stress overworks adrenal glands, which produce DHEA[2][4]. If you’re constantly tired despite rest, low levels could be why.
– **Low Libido or Brain Fog**: Since DHEA fuels sex hormones like testosterone (yes, women need it too!), supplementing might revive sexual desire and mental clarity[1][5].
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### **Is It Safe?**
Short-term use appears safe for most people at doses around 25–50 mg daily[^note], but long-term effects are still being studied[1][5]. Always check with a doctor first—especially if you have hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer or take medications that interact with hormones (e.g., insulin).
*Note: Dosages vary; consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.*
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In short: DHEA keeps many systems running smoothly as we age—but balance is key! If symptoms like fatigue or vaginal dryness bother you, ask your doctor if testing or supplements could help restore what time takes away.[^note]
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*This article simplifies complex science into everyday language while prioritizing accuracy based on current research.*
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^note *Specific dosage recommendations are not universally established; always follow medical guidance.*
