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DHEA Supplements: Benefits, Risks, and Alternatives for Women

Madeleine Willett
Madeleine Willett

If you’re experiencing challenging perimenopause symptoms, are DHEA supplements the right answer? Here’s what you need to know.

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Aug 3, 2024
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If you’re experiencing challenging perimenopause symptoms, are DHEA supplements the right answer? Here’s what you need to know.

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If you’re experiencing challenging perimenopause symptoms, are DHEA supplements the right answer? Here’s what you need to know.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. This natural hormone is an intermediate for male and female sex hormones, like progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. 

As we get older, our DHEA levels decline, which can lead to various physical and mental symptoms. As a result, DHEA supplements have been more common for peri- and postmenopausal women. However, excessive supplementation may lead to unwanted side effects or disruptions in hormonal balance.  

If you’re approaching or past menopause, you may be considering DHEA supplements. So, what exactly is DHEA, what can it do, and are DHEA supplements right for you?

What is DHEA? 

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a foundational element in sex hormone production. Essential hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone depend on DHEA for their synthesis. This prehormone is made by the adrenal glands above the kidneys.

DHEA reaches its highest levels in early adulthood. Production gradually and naturally decreases starting in your twenties.  

Impacts of DHEA on females  

DHEA specifically impacts estrogen and its ability to perform its functions, which range from regulating the menstrual cycle to maintaining bone strength.

Enzymes in specific tissues metabolize DHEA into metabolites that can be converted into estrogens (and androgens like testosterone), which then can bind to estrogen specific receptors. When estrogen binds to its specialized receptors inside cells, the actions and processes estrogen is involved in can begin.   

The impact of DHEA on estrogen levels varies depending on age, health conditions, and hormonal status. This precursor hormone interacts with estrogen in several ways. DHEA levels influence estrogen production by undergoing conversion through enzymes like aromatase.  

DHEA also affects estrogen balance by influencing the ratio of testosterone to estrogen in the body. Maintaining an appropriate balance of these hormones is critical for the proper functioning of many of the body's systems. Conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can develop from hormonal imbalances

>>RELATED: What Is Estrogen Dominance (And How Does It Affect My Fertility)?

Additionally, DHEA and estrogen share roles in various physiological functions like bone health, sex drive, mood, and estrogen-dependent cancers.  

What are optimal DHEA levels for women?  

DHEA peaks in your 20s, then gradually declines as you age. Typical DHEA levels in women are: 

Mount Sinai (2024). DHEA- Sulfate Test

What happens when DHEA declines?

DHEA levels naturally decline with age in both men and women. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Reduced energy levels
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Bone health issues
  • Muscle loss
  • Skin changes

It's important to note that while DHEA levels decrease with age, these symptoms aren't necessarily caused solely by low DHEA. Other factors, like lifestyle factors or underlying medical conditions, also play a role.

While the medical community does not fully understand DHEA’s functions beyond its associated with sex hormones, it is believed that it could potentially play a role in the menopause symptoms. During perimenopause and postmenopause, DHEA levels continue to decrease along with estrogen and progesterone

DHEA supplements: benefits and uses

Because a decline in DHEA is often associated with symptoms of aging, researchers have considered that DHEA supplements could be used to combat and treat these symptoms. For example, because a decline in DHEA can lead to symptoms like reduced energy levels and decreased sex drive, DHEA supplementation can potentially help address these issues.

DHEA supplementation has been used in treatments for:  

  • Metabolic syndrome  
  • Heart disease  
  • Systemic lupus  
  • Adrenal insufficiency  
  • Addison's disease  
  • Depression 
  • Osteoporosis 
  • Obesity  
  • Erectile dysfunction  
  • Low sex drive  
  • HIV  
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Perimenopause 

DHEA supplements for perimenopause symptoms

In recent years, there has been a growing focus on alleviating symptoms of perimenopause and exploring hormonal supplementation. DHEA has emerged in discussions related to menopause due to its significant role in the production of estrogen—a hormone which fluctuates during this phase of life for women, and can cause a range of difficult perimenopause symptoms.

So, do DHEA supplements work to relieve perimenopause symptoms? The results are mixed, and there’s more research to be done.

One study that focused on the impact of DHEA supplementation specifically on symptomatic perimenopausal women found that those receiving DHEA did not experience significant improvements in the severity of perimenopausal symptoms. The study noted that while supplementation did have noticeable effects on women’s hormone profiles (meaning increases in hormones DHEA produces), it might influence lipid profiles as well (meaning high cholesterol), and it did not lead to symptom improvement compared to the placebo group.  

A more recent literature review on the potential benefits and risks of androgen prohormones in women—including DHEA supplementation—concluded that there was evidence of small benefits in quality of life and mood for women with adrenal insufficiency or anorexia. But there were no consistent beneficial effects observed for menopausal symptoms, sexual function, cognition, or overall well-being in women with sufficient adrenal function. 

Are DHEA supplements safe?

While DHEA isn’t necessarily unsafe, you shouldn’t take DHEA supplements with consulting a provider. DHEA supplements have limited evidence of their benefits, and there’s concern about their side effects and long-term effects. 

One research review of DHEA supplementation concluded that supplementing a prehormone is closer to hormonal optimization than hormonal supplementation because you’re supplementing a hormonal product directly (e.g. estrogen supplements). It also noted that there are robust positive effects of DHEA on muscle, bone, cardiovascular disease, and sexual function; however, the review shared common concerns that most DHEA students aren’t large or long enough to conclude on the effects of DHEA on aging and age-related diseases.

Some of the unfavorable side effects of DHEA supplements for women are:  

  • Oily skin and acne  
  • Skin thickening  
  • Hair loss  
  • Stomach upset  
  • High blood pressure  
  • Changes in menstrual cycle  
  • Facial hair 
  • Deepening of voice 
  • Fatigue  
  • Nasal congestion  
  • Headache  
  • Heartbeat irregularities  
  • Rapid heartbeat  
  • Insomnia  
  • Changes in cholesterol levels  

Should I take DHEA supplements?

If you are considering DHEA supplements, be sure to discuss your symptoms with your provider. Here are some questions you can ask to determine if DHEA supplementation is suitable for you:  

  • Would I benefit from DHEA supplementation based on my symptoms?  
  • Are there any medications I currently take that could interact with DHEA supplementation? 
  • How long can I expect to benefit from DHEA supplementation?  
  • What are the reputable brands or sources for purchasing DHEA supplements?  
  • What potential adverse effects should I be aware of to report to you?  
  • What other options do I have to address my symptoms besides DHEA supplementation? 

Alternatives to DHEA supplements

If you’re experiencing symptoms that may not benefit from DHEA supplements or your provider is concerned about DHEA side effects, there are other ways to balance your hormones and address symptoms. 

For example, lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, using stress management techniques, and limiting the use of alcohol and other substances can be beneficial in balancing hormones and reducing symptoms of perimenopause.  

>>MORE: Perimenopause Treatment: 9 Ways to Find Relief (And How to Know It’s Working)

If you’re looking for medical intervention, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help manage symptoms by supplementing declining hormones. Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure HRT is right for you.

DHEA supplements: the bottom line

DHEA is a precursor hormone (pre-hormone) to key sex hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in both men and women. As DHEA declines naturally as we age, DHEA supplementation has gained a lot of attention as a potential remedy for aging — including perimenopause. 

While research has shown that DHEA supplementation can be beneficial for some individuals, comprehensive research on its long-term effects and efficacy in alleviating perimenopausal symptoms is limited. 

Make sure to talk with your healthcare provider to explore personalized DHEA supplementation or alternative treatment options for managing your symptoms. 

About the author

Madeleine Willett
Madeleine Willett is an honors nursing student at the University of Connecticut, set to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2026. She actively contributes to research initiatives and is currently exploring her interests in women’s sexual and reproductive health, eager to make a positive impact in these critical areas.

Sources

perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.