DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)

DHEA-S is an androgen hormone produced almost exclusively by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor the body converts into testosterone and estrogen. Elevated DHEA-S levels in women with PCOS indicate that adrenal androgen overproduction is contributing to the hormonal imbalance, which is the case in approximately 20-30% of PCOS patients—a pattern sometimes referred to as adrenal PCOS. Measuring DHEA-S alongside ovarian androgens like testosterone helps clinicians identify the source of androgen excess and guide treatment decisions, as adrenal-driven PCOS may respond differently to stress management and lifestyle interventions.