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Hormones

Pregnenolone Test

Pregnenolone is the foundational precursor for all steroid hormones. As part of a comprehensive hormonal assessment, monitoring pregnenolone can help identify whether your body has adequate building blocks for balanced hormone production.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Male Your group
nmol/L
Low 0.9 Normal 6.3 High
Female Your group
nmol/L
Low 0.9 Normal 6.3 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

Pregnenolone: what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of pregnenolone in your blood. Pregnenolone is synthesized from cholesterol primarily in the adrenal glands and serves as the foundational building block for the production of all steroid hormones in the body.

Pregnenolone: why this value matters

A proactive health approach includes understanding upstream hormone precursors. Pregnenolone levels may provide early insight into potential hormonal imbalances before downstream hormones are affected.

Pregnenolone: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you experience symptoms of hormonal imbalance, chronic fatigue, cognitive changes, or suspected adrenal dysfunction. Your healthcare provider can determine whether pregnenolone testing is appropriate for your situation.

Pregnenolone: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people with low pregnenolone may experience fatigue, poor memory, low mood, joint stiffness, or reduced stress tolerance. Low levels may also be associated with downstream deficiencies in other steroid hormones.

High Levels

Elevated pregnenolone levels are relatively uncommon and may sometimes be associated with adrenal overactivity or certain enzyme deficiencies. Consult your healthcare provider for interpretation if levels are above the reference range.

Pregnenolone: lifestyle and this value

Stress management, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet with healthy fats may support pregnenolone production. Chronic stress can divert pregnenolone toward cortisol production at the expense of other hormones. Consult your healthcare provider before considering any supplements.

Pregnenolone: frequently asked questions

Why is pregnenolone called the "mother hormone"?
Pregnenolone is the first hormone produced from cholesterol and serves as the precursor for all other steroid hormones, including cortisol, DHEA, progesterone, and testosterone.
Can stress affect pregnenolone levels?
Yes, chronic stress may cause the body to prioritize cortisol production from pregnenolone, potentially reducing the availability for other hormones. This is sometimes called the "pregnenolone steal."
Does pregnenolone decline with age?
Pregnenolone production typically decreases with age. This natural decline may contribute to reductions in downstream hormones and is sometimes associated with age-related changes in energy and cognition.

Tests with related values

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Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
Welzijn en Sport Official BIG registration BIG 49928676701 Opens in a new tab

Pregnenolone

€130,-