DHEA treatment has been used to successfully treat infertility and premature ovarian aging.
DHEA is a mild male hormone used for a variety of health reasons, such as erectile dysfunction in men, low sexuality in women, and to increase muscle mass, strength and energy.
The Center for Human Reproduction discovered the relationship between increased ovarian function and DHEA supplement intake in a patient that took an over-the-counter DHEA supplement on her own behalf. During the course of four months she greatly increased her oocyte (egg) yield in an IVF treatment.
Currently, the discovered benefits of DHEA treatment are numerous and the side effects are few. Effects of the DHEA hormone in women include increased occyte (egg) and embryo counts, improved egg and embryo quality, increased available euploid (chromosomally normal) and embryos, increased pregnancy rates in fertility treatment, increased spontaneously conceived pregnancy, and improved IVF success rates. In addition, cumulative pregnancy rates have increased and spontaneous miscarriage rates have decreased among women undergoing DHEA fertility treatments.
The most common known side effects are oily skin, acne, and hair loss and are seen very rarely among patients. Instead, patients more often remark about the many positive effects they experience. The non-fertility relative benefits expressed in women include improved overall well-being and physical strength and enhanced sex drive, mental sharpness, and memory.
Given such positive results, DHEA fertility treatment has so far proven to be beneficial and safe, advancing infertility treatment and doctors’ success with patients.
great info on DHEA fertility! thanks
Does the DHEA treatment have to be done along with an IVF treatment for effective fertility?
Not necessarily! In fact studies show that the incidence of spontaneous conception dramatically increases with DHEA use in women with poor ovarian reserve.
Are there any harmful effects of DHEA treatment for fertility?
Yes. Taking too much DHEA can cause a cessation of ovulation which is why it should only be used while under the close supervision of a fertility expert.
How much DHEA do I need to take at home to get these same results?
I would not recommend taking DHEA supplements at home. It is important to be under the supervision of a doctor who can carefully monitor your ovarian function while under DHEA treatment to prevent a loss of ovarian function
Are Side effect of DHEA permanent? I was on Dhea for about 2 months and my period is late for about 2 weeks so far. I already stop taking them and still no period. thanks
DHEA should be taken only under the supervision of your doctor as it can affect your ovulation cycle. For more information visit the Center for Human Reproduction DHEA treatment page. They also offer free personalized responses by one of their physicians if you submit a question on the form on this page: https://www.centerforhumanreprod.com/contact_form.php
I have been perscribed DHEA from a fertility doctor in Canada. I am taking 25mg 3 times a day! It can only beperscribed here and the Pharmasist has to fill the perscription.The drive to get them is a very long one so I was wondering what ones would be the same if I were to buy them in the States?
Try talking with your doctor about which DHEA products he or she would recommend. There is a new product that is set to be released in the next few months in the US called Fertinatal. You can see it here http://www.fertinatal.com/
can u give me rough idea if its worth my while going for ivf. im 37 my hma is 1.5 doctors plan on treating me with dhea
Hi Irine. I would recommend that you get several opinions from fertility specialists before making your decision. Most clinics offer free consultations both in-office and online.
Hi – I’m 36 and after two unsuccessful IVF cycles, my reproductive endocrinologist suggested taking 25mg DHEA (OTC) 2-3 times a day and asked me to return in approx 6 weeks to test my AMH/MIS (in January it was a mere 0.12) and to potentially begin my third and final IVF cycle.
After reading this article and your responses though, I’m afraid that if I’m not closely monitored I might experience a complete loss of ovarian function and…all hope of ever concieving.
So my question is this – should I request regular “monitoring” and if so, what would that look like (i.e. frequency of visits, type of procedures used to monitor, etc)? – Thank you!
Always speak with a specialist who can answer your questions and help guide you through treatment.