Comparison of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and Cortisol Hormone Levels in Premenopausal Women with Sexual Dysfunction
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Abstract
Introduction: Sexual dysfunction is common in premenopausal women. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and cortisol are thought to play a key role in the mechanism of sexual dysfunction in premenopausal women by affecting the balance of androgens and estrogens.
Objectives: to compare the dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and cortisol hormone levels in premenopausal women with sexual dysfunction.
Methods: This analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted at Wahidin Sudirohusodo Central General Hospital and Pepabri Health Center, Makassar, Indonesia, from January to June 2025. Seventy-eight premenopausal women aged 40-50 years were enrolled, consisting of 39 with sexual dysfunction and 39 without, determined by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Serum cortisol and DHEA levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results: Cortisol levels were significantly higher in premenopausal women with sexual dysfunction compared to those without (median 9.05 vs 7.87 µg/dL). Conversely, DHEA levels were significantly lower in the sexual dysfunction group (median 0.82 vs 2.05 ng/mL). Cortisol levels were negatively correlated with sexual desire (r=-0.603) and orgasm (r=-0.349), while DHEA levels were positively correlated with sexual desire (r=0.423) and arousal (r = 0.347).
Conclusions: Elevated cortisol and reduced DHEA levels are associated with sexual dysfunction in premenopausal women, particularly affecting desire, arousal, and orgasm. These hormones may serve as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for improving sexual function.