Abstract: The mechanism of action of dehydroepiandrosterone （DHEA） and its sulphate DHEAS，the most abundant sex steroids in human，are not well understood. Low levels of DHEA are associated not only with the ageing process but also with diabetes mellitus，cardiovascular diseases and some neurological or immunological diseases. Clinical application and practice of DHEA have been a topic，especially in women. Although its effectiveness has been universally acknowledged，there is scant evidence to support the safety of DHEA in clinical therapy. It is necessary to conduct the adequately powered，well-designed and randomized，and placebo-controlled trials to evaluate the clinical application of DHEA.

Key words: Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, Ovarian failure, premature, Fertilization in vitro, Abortion, Perimenopause