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Hormones

Pregnenolone Test

A pregnenolone blood test measures the level of pregnenolone, often called the "mother hormone" because it serves as the precursor for many other steroid hormones. Pregnenolone is produced from cholesterol and is the starting point for cortisol, DHEA, progesterone, and testosterone synthesis.

Turnaround up to 72 hours, estimate Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).

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 values can vary between laboratories. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.

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

Monitoring pregnenolone may be important because as the precursor to all steroid hormones, its levels can influence the production of cortisol, sex hormones, and DHEA. Low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency or disruptions in steroid hormone synthesis.

Pregnenolone: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Results
Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

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

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

Results without a doctor's assessment

You receive your values with the unit and reference range. A doctor's assessment is not part of this site. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.

Pregnenolone

€130,-