Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring steroid hormone that the adrenal glands primarily produce. It functions as a precursor, meaning the body converts it into other active hormones, including both androgens and estrogens. For individuals who supplement with DHEA, a common question arises regarding continuing its use during menstruation. This article explores the biological context of DHEA and provides guidance on maintaining supplementation during the menstrual period.
Understanding DHEA Supplementation
DHEA is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone, and its production naturally peaks in early adulthood before gradually declining with age. This age-related decrease has led to its use as a supplement. The primary function of supplemental DHEA is to provide the body with the raw material it needs to synthesize sex hormones like testosterone and estradiol. People often take DHEA to address symptoms associated with age-related hormonal decline, such as supporting energy, mood, and bone mineral density. In reproductive medicine, DHEA is frequently incorporated into fertility protocols, particularly for women with diminished ovarian reserve. Typical dosages for women often range from 5 to 50 milligrams daily and must always be determined by a healthcare provider.
DHEA’s Interaction with the Menstrual Cycle
The body’s natural levels of sex hormones, which DHEA helps create, fluctuate dramatically across the four phases of the menstrual cycle. DHEA is converted into hormones that are integral to ovarian function, supporting the growth and quality of developing egg follicles. This process is known as ovarian follicular steroidogenesis. Supplemental DHEA adds to the body’s overall hormone precursor pool, influencing the production of estrogens and androgens that regulate the entire cycle. Because DHEA supplementation impacts these cyclical hormones, it can sometimes cause changes in the timing or regularity of the menstrual period, especially at higher doses.
Guidance for Taking DHEA During Menstruation
For most women taking DHEA under a physician’s supervision, the standard guidance is to continue the supplement consistently, without interruption, throughout the menstrual bleeding phase. DHEA acts as a building block and requires time to establish steady-state levels in the body before observable effects occur. Stopping the supplement for a few days each month would disrupt the stability of these precursor levels, potentially negating the intended therapeutic effect. Maintaining stable circulating levels of its downstream hormones is the goal of DHEA supplementation, particularly for long-term support like fertility or adrenal health. Abruptly stopping and restarting the supplement can lead to unnecessary hormonal fluctuations that can be more disruptive to the cycle than continuous use. Any decision to pause or alter the dose, even during the period, should only be made on the explicit instruction of the supervising clinician. DHEA is not generally known to directly affect the volume of menstrual flow or the severity of menstrual pain. If a woman experiences a noticeable change in flow or pain after starting DHEA, it is more likely related to the overall shift in sex hormone balance. Continuing the regular dose is the typical recommendation unless a medical professional advises a specific cyclical dosing regimen.
Signs of Hormonal Imbalance and When to Consult a Doctor
Monitoring for signs that the DHEA dosage is too high is necessary when taking this supplement. Since DHEA converts into androgens, an excess can lead to androgenic side effects that manifest physically.
Physical and Mood Changes
Common signs of excessive androgen conversion include:
- The development of acne or increased oiliness of the skin.
- Thinning of hair on the scalp, resembling male-pattern baldness.
- Unwanted hair growth on the face or body (hirsutism).
- A subtle deepening of the voice.
- Mood changes, such as increased irritability or excitability.
Any of these symptoms warrant a prompt consultation with the prescribing physician to discuss a potential dose reduction.
Menstrual Cycle Changes
If DHEA use is associated with a sudden onset of irregular periods, unexpected breakthrough bleeding, or a significant, sustained change in the heaviness of the flow, medical advice should be sought. These changes suggest that the supplemental hormone is disrupting the body’s natural endocrine rhythm and requires a dosage adjustment.