Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring hormone produced by both males and females in the adrenal glands. It helps to produce other hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
What is DHEA Used For?
As a supplement, DHEA has several uses, such as potentially alleviating symptoms of menopause and depression. It may even reduce bone loss for those with osteoporosis. The Center for Human Reproduction in New York is the first fertility center to introduce DHEA use for infertility purposes. DHEA also may come with side effects, which is why it’s always important to consult with your doctor first before taking it.
Taking DHEA for TTC Support
When to Start Taking DHEA:
The best time to start taking DHEA for reproductive health reasons is during the early stages of egg development. Follicles in the ovaries have androgen receptors that appear the most during the pre-antral and early antral follicle stages. This time period is approximately 20-65 days before ovulation. It has been found that your androgens improve egg quality the most during this time.
In regards to an IVF cycle, the CHR reported findings of egg quality improving after about a minimum of 6 weeks of DHEA supplementation, making the DHEA fertility dosage critical for best results. In other words, take as instructed on a supplement package for best results. Ovaterra’s FERTINATAL® DHEA, for example, is a recommended supplement as it has been found that the DHEA used in FERTINATAL® can improve egg quality.* A 4-week supply would include 84 capsules at 25 mg per each.
When to Stop Taking DHEA while TTCt:
You should cease intake of DHEA if you experience any adverse side effects (again, consult with your doctor). You should also no longer need to take DHEA at the 16–20-week mark of consistent use since the positive effects will accumulate for that amount of time.
Based on previous studies, improvements in egg quality were noticed after approximately 6 weeks of use of DHEA supplements. With uninterrupted use, the benefits of DHEA can continue until about 16-20 weeks of supplementation.
*THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, OR CURE ANY DISEASE.
Ovaterra recognizes the importance of preconception health, and as a result, we provide a selection of reproductive health supplements backed by scientific research. Although we refrain from making precise assertions about product efficacy, we have confidence that our meticulously crafted supplements can serve as a valuable complement to your journey toward parenthood. Feel free to explore our website for additional information!
