DHEA-S (DHEA sulphate) blood test
Quick answer: A DHEA-S test measures DHEA sulphate, a male-type hormone made almost entirely by the adrenal glands. Doctors order it in women with extra hair growth, acne or irregular periods to check whether the adrenal glands are a source of high androgens.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careDHEA-S is often checked as part of the work-up for PCOS and irregular ovulation.
How the test is done
- 1You can usually come at any time of day
- 2A needle draws blood from a vein in your arm
- 3The sample is labelled and sent to the lab
- 4The lab measures DHEA-S, often with testosterone
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Hormone ranges differ between labs and by age, sex and cycle day, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can point to the adrenal glands as a source of high androgens, as in congenital adrenal hyperplasia, PCOS or, rarely, an adrenal tumour. A low level can be seen with adrenal insufficiency or with older age.
Who usually has this test
Women with extra hair growth, acne or irregular periods, and children with early signs of puberty.
Risks and aftercare
A plaster over the site is usually all that is needed.
Names and options
Also called: DHEAS, DHEA-S, DHEA sulfate
Listed by the hospital as
- DHEAS, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why is DHEA-S used to check the adrenal glands?
DHEA-S is made almost entirely by the adrenal glands. A high level suggests the extra androgens are coming from them rather than the ovaries.
Is DHEA-S often high in PCOS?
It is mildly raised in some women with PCOS. A very high level needs further checks for other causes.
Does time of day affect DHEA-S?
DHEA-S stays fairly steady through the day, so timing matters less than for many other hormones.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.