Description
A foundational hormone that influences memory, mood, and hormone balance
Pregnenolone is a naturally occurring hormone produced primarily in the adrenal glands, brain, and gonads. Known as the "mother hormone," it serves as a precursor to many other steroid hormones, including DHEA, progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol.
This test uses LC/MS (liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry)—a highly sensitive and accurate method for measuring hormone levels—to determine the amount of pregnenolone circulating in the blood.
Why Pregnenolone Matters
As a precursor hormone, pregnenolone plays a central role in the body’s ability to produce and balance other hormones. It also influences brain function, memory, mood regulation, and the stress response.
Low pregnenolone levels may be associated with:
- Fatigue or burnout
- Poor memory or cognitive decline
- Low libido
- Hormonal imbalances
- Depression or mood instability
- Chronic stress or adrenal dysfunction
What the Pregnenolone Test Helps With
- Identifying adrenal or hormonal insufficiency
- Evaluating symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, or low libido
- Supporting a comprehensive workup for hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Tracking age-related hormone decline
- Monitoring hormone optimization plans
Who Should Consider This Test?
You may benefit from pregnenolone testing if you:
- Have signs of hormonal imbalance but unclear lab results
- Are undergoing bioidentical hormone therapy
- Experience persistent fatigue, brain fog, or mood swings
- Are being evaluated for adrenal fatigue or low DHEA
- Want a complete picture of your hormone production pathway
Specimen Type: Blood Draw
Methodology: LC/MS (Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry)
Fasting: Not required
