Can Thyroid Disorders Also Impact Male Fertility?

When we talk about thyroid problems, women are often the focus of the conversation in clinics and homes. Which makes sense also because thyroid diseases are more common in women. However, men are also not immune to thyroid disorders. Studies suggest that both types of thyroid dysfunction, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, are linked to male infertility, which has become a serious concern over the past decade.

As January is Thyroid Awareness Month, we should pay attention to the important but less-discussed fact that thyroid disorders can have a significant effect on male fertility. To gain more insight into this subject, the Onlymyhealth editorial team spoke to Dr Ashish Gupta, Consultant - Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders at Yatharth Hospital, Noida. Continue reading to discover what all he shared with us.

Understanding the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck under the skin. It plays a major role in controlling metabolism, energy balance, and hormonal harmony in the body. According to a report by the Cleveland Clinic, it is part of our endocrine system and controls many of the body’s important functions by producing and secreting certain hormones.

Also Read: Is Tech Neck Quietly Affecting Women’s Thyroid Health?

Speaking about the thyroid gland and its link to male fertility, Dr Ashish Gupta explains, “Thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), affect almost every organ system, including the male reproductive system.”

He further underlines that when these hormones are too low or too high, the delicate balance needed for normal sperm production and sexual function can be disrupted.

Thyroid Dysfunction and Male Infertility

In men with hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), low levels of thyroid hormones can cause a low libido, difficulty achieving an erection, and problems with sperm parameters.

Research has shown that hypothyroidism can lower sperm count, make sperm less mobile, and change their shape. Dr Gupta mentioned, “These changes don't happen all at once; they occur slowly over time and are often not noticed until a couple has trouble conceiving.”

Hyperthyroidism in men, on the other hand, can also make it hard to conceive. According to Dr Gupta, “Excessive thyroid hormones can lead to reduced semen volume, lower sperm quality, and increased oxidative stress, which harms sperm DNA. Men with hyperthyroidism may also experience premature ejaculation or reduced sexual satisfaction, making it even harder to achieve pregnancy.”

Also Read: Why Are PCOS and Thyroid Issues Rising Rapidly Among Gen Z Women?

Dr Gupta highlights that people often forget how thyroid hormones and other reproductive hormones work together. “Problems with the thyroid can affect testosterone production and change the levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).”

This hormonal imbalance can interfere with spermatogenesis, which is the process by which sperm are produced in the testes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Men facing fertility issues due to thyroid can recover, and their sperm count and sexual function may improve if the condition is diagnosed and treated in time. Doctors can identify thyroid disorders by testing TSH, T3, and T4 levels.

“For hypothyroidism, treatment typically includes thyroid hormone replacement therapy. For hyperthyroidism, treatment might include medications, radioactive iodine, or other methods,” Dr Gupta states.

Men attempting to start a family, especially those facing unexplained infertility, should not delay in ensuring their thyroid is functioning properly. This is especially true if they also experience symptoms such as:

• Unexplained weight changes
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Inability to handle heat or cold
• Extreme mood swings

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Sadly, social conditioning often prevents men from seeking medical help early, meaning they do not receive a diagnosis until the situation feels serious, eventually leading to further complications.

“As an endocrinologist, I strongly advocate for a couple-based assessment to evaluate infertility. Fertility is not a concern for women alone; it is a collective responsibility. Increasing awareness of how thyroid health affects male fertility can help couples receive the right treatment sooner and avoid unnecessary emotional pain,” Dr Gupta highlights.

Simple Lifestyle Changes to Improve Thyroid Dysfunction

Along with medication and clinical treatment, Dr Gupta emphasises maintaining a better and more active lifestyle to manage thyroid dysfunction in both women and men. Men often ignore their own health concerns while focusing on taking care of their families. Nevertheless, making simple changes to a daily routine can prevent a condition from reaching a severe stage.

Your Diet

Replace junk and processed food with nutrient-rich, home-made meals. Check your plate before eating, as what you eat shapes your body physically and even mentally. Your plate should be balanced with protein, healthy fatty acids, and essential nutrients.

Be Physically Active

Being physically active is one of the smartest choices you can make for any medical condition. Use the stairs, choose walking over transport where possible, exercise, or enjoy dancing at home. Playing sports with your children or other family members not only boosts happy hormones but also helps balance thyroid disorders.

Also Read: Mood Swings, Anxiety, Restlessness? Your Thyroid Might Be To Blame 

Manage Stress

Considering today’s fast-paced lifestyle, managing stress and staying mentally fit is vital. Practice yoga, breathing exercises, or perhaps journaling, along with good quality and consistent sleep. You must choose what works for you to handle stress, as it plays a vital role in overall health.

Regular Check-Ups

As the phrase goes, early diagnosis is key to managing all diseases. Routine check-ups, not ignoring symptoms, and seeking timely medical help will not only prevent thyroid disorders from worsening but also make it easier to treat infertility.

Bottomline

As Dr Gupta suggests, this Thyroid Awareness Month, let’s talk more about thyroid health. Treating thyroid problems in men is an important step toward healthier families and better reproductive choices. The thyroid does not just create fertility issues; it also makes it difficult to navigate daily life situations. Considering its impact on your overall well-being, it is crucial to seek timely check-ups and stay physically and mentally fit.