What is the DHEA test?

The DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate) blood test measures DHEA-S, a hormone produced mainly by the adrenal glands. DHEA acts as a precursor to testosterone and oestrogen and plays a central role in hormonal balance, energy regulation, and stress adaptation.

Because DHEA-S levels remain stable throughout the day, this test provides a reliable snapshot of long-term adrenal function rather than momentary stress levels. It is widely used in endocrinology, functional medicine, and preventative health screening.

Why do I need a DHEA test?

DHEA levels naturally decline with age, but abnormally low or high levels may indicate adrenal dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, or excessive physiological stress.

This test is particularly useful when symptoms persist despite normal routine blood results, or when investigating fatigue, hormone-related symptoms, or reduced stress tolerance.

You may benefit from a DHEA test if you experience:

• Ongoing fatigue or low energy
• Poor stress tolerance or burnout
• Low libido or fertility concerns
• Mood changes or brain fog
• Muscle loss or reduced performance
• Acne, hair thinning, or excess hair growth
• Suspected adrenal or hormonal imbalance

Benefits of the DHEA test

• Evaluates adrenal gland function
  Reflects long-term adrenal hormone production.
• Assesses hormone balance
  Influences testosterone and oestrogen pathways.
• Identifies age-related decline
  Helps distinguish normal ageing from deficiency.
• Supports fatigue investigations
  Low levels are linked to chronic stress and exhaustion.
• Aids fertility and reproductive health assessments
  Relevant for both men and women.
• Detects androgen excess
  Elevated levels may explain acne or hair changes.
• Supports preventative and longevity screening
  Commonly used in optimisation protocols.
• Guides safe supplementation decisions
  Prevents unnecessary or harmful DHEA use.

Step by step – how the test works

You have two convenient testing options available UK-wide:

1. Clinic appointment
   Choose your nearest UK clinic, where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
   A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, collects your sample, and you don’t need to travel.

Your sample is analysed in a UK-accredited laboratory, and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Low DHEA levels

May indicate adrenal fatigue, chronic stress, hormonal ageing, or reduced adrenal reserve. Low levels are often associated with fatigue, low mood, reduced libido, and decreased stress resilience.

Typical UK reference range:

• Adults: ~ 2.2–13.0 µmol/L (age and sex dependent)

Normal DHEA levels

Suggest healthy adrenal function and balanced hormone precursor production. Normal results usually indicate adequate stress adaptation and endocrine support.

Typical UK reference range:

• Within laboratory age- and sex-specific intervals

High DHEA levels

May reflect adrenal overactivity, hormonal imbalance, or excessive supplementation. Persistently high levels can contribute to acne, hair loss, menstrual irregularities, or mood changes.

Typical UK reference range:

• Above laboratory-specific upper limit