Unexplained increase of DHEA level

[LRed]

Hello, I read posts here about DHEA and got a test from Medichecks and another test from my GP. Both showed higher levels (10.2 umol/L and 9.6 umol/L) outside the normal range. An ultrasound scan showed that my adrenal glands were normal. My GP tested my oestradio, LH/FSH and testosterone too, and they were all in the normal range. So there is no more investigation with the NHS.

I read It Starts with the Egg and understand that low level of DHEA is not favourable for IVF. But since DHEA is a form of male hormone, surely too much of it won't be good either? I've had two failed rounds with no implantation. Maybe the embryos wouldn't implant because my body was too 'male'? Is there any further tests I should take? Should I bring down my DHEA level before the next round? I am 42. I'd rather not wait but go ahead with my next and final round asap.

[soccerkt6]

Hi lovely, what were your LH and FSH numbers like? They should be in about a 1:1 ratio, but if the LH is 2-3x higher, that (in conjunction with the high DHEA) could indicate PCOS. xx

[soccerkt6 in reply to soccerkt6]

I’ve found the following article really interesting and it talks about DHEA in relation to PCOS.

chriskresser.com/adrenal-pc...

At the end, it mentions that chronically high stress can lead to elevated DHEA levels. It’s hypothesized that high levels of DHEA are actually the body’s way of protecting the brain from the long-term effects of chronic stress.

Soooo, while I know that this is a really unhelpful suggestion for someone going through this incredibly stressful process, you may want to consider how to de-stress your life a bit. Regular meditation, gentle exercise, or whatever helps relax you may help to bring down your DHEA levels naturally into a normal range. Good luck! xx

[LRed in reply to soccerkt6]

Thanks so much soccerkt6! LH was 1.7 and FSH was 3.7, so the ratio is...0.46? That sounds wrong, doesn't it 🥺

How do you test and confirm PCOS? Interesting that no one mentioned it to me, neither NHS nor the private IVF clinic.

Thanks for the de-stress tips! I wouldn't consider my life as a stressful one, as I have been enjoying working from home and going for walks in the parks everyday. But maybe there are some small everyday stress that adds up...xx