Supplements · 5 min read · Due Team
DHEA and Fertility: Who It's For and Who It Isn't
DHEA is one of the more polarizing fertility supplements — genuinely useful for a specific group, potentially harmful for others. Here's how to know which side you're on.
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an adrenal hormone that serves as a precursor to both estrogen and testosterone. In fertility contexts, it's primarily used to improve ovarian response in people with diminished ovarian reserve — but it's not appropriate for everyone.
Why DHEA is used in fertility
As ovarian reserve declines, androgen levels in the ovarian environment also drop. Androgens play a role in early follicle development, and some research suggests that supplementing DHEA can improve the follicular environment. Several studies have shown improved IVF outcomes in poor responders who supplemented DHEA for 6 to 12 weeks before retrieval.
Who it's most relevant for
- People with diminished ovarian reserve or low AMH
- Poor responders in IVF (those who produce few eggs per retrieval cycle)
- Generally recommended for people over 40 in some fertility protocols
Who should not take it
DHEA raises androgen levels. For people with PCOS — who already have elevated androgens — this can worsen hormonal imbalance and potentially suppress ovulation further. DHEA is contraindicated for PCOS in most cases.
The bottom line
DHEA has meaningful evidence for a specific population — diminished ovarian reserve, particularly in IVF. This is one supplement where provider guidance is not optional.
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Chat with Due for a breakdown based on your specific situation.
Chat with DueWant personalized guidance? Chat with Due for a breakdown based on your specific situation.