Labs by Hers: The key markers that matter. Start testing

Inflammation & Stress

DHEA-Sulfate

Also known as: Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate test, DHEA-S blood test, Androgen precursor test, Adrenal androgen test

The DHEA-Sulfate test (DHEA-S)  measures the amount of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in your blood — a hormone made mainly by your adrenal glands and, to a lesser degree, by your ovaries. DHEA-S serves as a building block for both estrogen and testosterone, influencing factors such as energy, mood, muscle tone, and libido.

Because DHEA-S levels tend to peak in early adulthood and decline naturally with age, changes in this hormone can sometimes point to underlying health issues. Abnormally high or low levels may suggest adrenal gland disorders, estrogen- or androgen-related imbalances, or rare hormonal syndromes.

Start testing
Learn more about Biomarkers

Key takeaways

  • Sample required: Blood (serum)

  • Tests for: Adrenal gland function and androgen (male hormone) balance

  • Healthy range (women in their twenties): ~65–380 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) (ranges vary by age and lab method)

What can a DHEA-S test tell you?

A DHEA-S test helps evaluate how well your adrenal glands — two small organs that sit above your kidneys — are functioning. These glands make androgens like DHEA-S, and several other hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone.

Doctors may use the DHEA-S test to:

  • Assess whether your adrenal glands are producing too much or too little androgen.

  • Help evaluate low libido

  • Evaluate potential adrenal disorders, including Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, or adrenal tumors.

  • Help investigate early or delayed puberty in boys or hormone-related infertility in adults.

Since DHEA-S acts as a precursor to testosterone and other androgens, measuring it can give your provider insight into your overall androgen status — especially when total or free testosterone levels are inconclusive or when signs of hormonal imbalance are present.

What is being tested?

DHEA-S is the sulfated form of DHEA, a steroid hormone derived from cholesterol. It’s produced mainly in the adrenal cortex under stimulation from adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) released by the pituitary gland.

DHEA-S circulates in the blood at much higher levels than DHEA and acts as a reservoir for androgen and estrogen synthesis in tissues such as the ovaries, skin, and brain.

In women, normal DHEA-S levels help support balanced hormone production, healthy energy levels, and overall well-being. Abnormally high or low levels can affect mood, libido, and metabolism, or signal issues with adrenal or pituitary function.

Where is the DHEA-S test typically included?

DHEA-S testing is usually ordered individually or as part of a targeted hormone or endocrine evaluation, especially when symptoms suggest an adrenal or androgen issue.

It may be included in:

  • Hormone or androgen panels (alongside testosterone, LH, FSH, and estradiol)

  • Adrenal function tests (alongside cortisol or ACTH)

  • Comprehensive endocrine workups for fatigue, infertility, or sexual dysfunction

In a telehealth setting, these may be available as part of an at-home hormone test that measures DHEA-S along with testosterone and cortisol to help provide a fuller picture of hormone balance.

Who should get a DHEA-S test?

Your provider may order a DHEA-S test if you have symptoms or risk factors that suggest a hormonal imbalance or adrenal problem.

Common Reasons to Test DHEA-S Include:

  • Low libido, erectile changes, or fatigue that might be related to low testosterone or adrenal dysfunction

  • Unexplained muscle loss or changes in body composition

  • Chronic stress, which can suppress or overstimulate adrenal hormone production

  • Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) or other signs of hormone imbalance

  • Early puberty in boys or delayed puberty in adolescents

  • Evaluation of adrenal masses or tumors seen on imaging

  • Monitoring congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) or other known endocrine disorders

Providers may also include DHEA-S when evaluating causes of low testosterone that don’t fit typical patterns, such as when total and free testosterone levels are normal but symptoms persist.

DHEA-S levels naturally decline with age — sometimes dropping by 80–90 percent from their peak by the time a man reaches his 70s. This gradual decline, called adrenopause, is normal and not necessarily a sign of disease. However, values far outside the expected age range on either side can signal that something more significant is going on.

How Labs by Hers works

  • 1

    Book your test

    Schedule a lab draw in the Hers app at one of more than 2,000 convenient locations.

  • 2

    Get your results

    Review your lab results to understand which areas of your health may need attention.

  • 3

    Spot early signals

    Identify potential health risks or system imbalances before they become more serious.

  • 4

    Get your action plan

    Receive expert guidance tailored to your health profile and test results.

  • 5

    Improve over time

    Track your progress through a mid-year panel and ongoing provider check-ins.

Not available in all 50 states. Eligibility and provider order required. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. A provider will reach out about critical results and plans include access to 24/7 provider messaging.

Images for illustrative purposes only.

Frequently asked questions

Start testing

What does the DHEA-S test measure?

It measures the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) — a hormone made mainly by your adrenal glands that helps produce testosterone and estrogen. Since DHEA-S stays in the bloodstream longer than DHEA, it’s a reliable marker for overall adrenal androgen activity.

When is a DHEA-S test recommended for women?

A healthcare provider may recommend this test if you experience fatigue, low sex drive, muscle weakness, or mood changes, if they have suspicion that they could stem from adrenal or pituitary imbalances. It’s also used to assess adrenal health if your doctor suspects Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, or adrenal tumors.

What’s a normal DHEA-S range for women?

Typical reference ranges for adult women vary by lab but often fall between 65 and 380 µg/dL for females in their twenties. Levels peak in your twenties and slowly decline with age. Since each lab may use different testing methods, always discuss your specific results with a provider.

Can I test my DHEA-S levels from home?

Yes. Many telehealth platforms offer at-home hormone testing options that measure DHEA-S, testosterone, and other key hormones. You collect a small blood sample (usually via finger prick) and send it to a certified lab. Results are reviewed by a licensed provider who can discuss what they mean and recommend next steps.

How often should DHEA-S be checked?

There’s no universal guideline for how often to check DHEA-S. Providers may retest periodically if you’re undergoing hormone therapy, being monitored for an adrenal disorder, or showing ongoing symptoms. Otherwise, repeat testing is usually unnecessary unless new symptoms arise.

What causes changes in DHEA-S levels?

High DHEA-S can result from adrenal overactivity, tumors, or DHEA supplements. Low DHEA-S is often linked to aging, adrenal or pituitary disorders, or chronic illness. Stress, sleep issues, and certain medications may also cause temporary changes.

Can DHEA supplements boost hormone levels safely?

Over-the-counter DHEA supplements are widely sold, but evidence on their safety and effectiveness is mixed. 

Is the DHEA-S test covered by insurance?

Usually, yes. Most insurance plans cover the test when a provider orders it for evaluation of symptoms like low testosterone or suspected adrenal dysfunction. However, insurance is not required for lab testing through Hers.

What tests are related to this biomarker?

• Total and Free Testosterone

• Cortisol 

• Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

• Estradiol 

• ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone)

• 17-Hydroxyprogesterone

The information provided here is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health concerns.

Related biomarkers

Start testing

Cortisol

Cortisol is your main stress hormone, helping regulate energy, blood sugar, and inflammation, impacting how you focus, sleep, and recover. Healthy levels support a steady mood and resilience.

Learn more about Cortisol

On your marks.

Get set.

Transform.

Find your baseline with 130+ biomarker tests, then plan for your health breakthrough.

Start testing

Supporting references

Sources

Reviewed by Lynn Marie Morski, MD

Published 12/04/2025