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When there's an imbalance in thyroid function, it can mess up the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods. But what about fertility? Can you conceive with thyroid imbalance? Let's hear it from a doctor to get a better understanding.
OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Dheeraj Kapoor, Chief- Endocrinology at Artemis Hospital Gurugram to understand in depth about thyroid imbalance and pregnancy.
How Does Thyroid Affect Your Menstrual Cycle
Dr Kapoor, while explaining, “Thyroid has significant impacts on the menstrual cycle. Thyroid plays a pivotal role in reproductive physiology through direct effects on the ovaries and plays an indirect role by interacting with sex hormone-binding globulin.”
“Thyroid also modulates the metabolism and is responsible for the development of ovarian, uterine, and placental tissues.Too much or too little thyroid can make periods heavy, light or irregular. In some cases, thyroid also causes periods to stop for several months and even longer. This is a condition called amenorrhea,” he said.
Also read: Hypothyroidism And Weight Management: 7 Tips For Finding The Balance
How Can Thyroid Imbalance Raise Menstrual Issues?
Explaining the raise in menstrual problems because of Thyroid imbalance, Dr Kapoor said, Thyroid imbalance can disturb the intricate hormonal balance that is vital for menstrual regularity. An underactive thyroid, a condition known as hypothyroidism, can lead to irregular or heavy periods, as low thyroid hormone levels may hamper ovulation and affect the uterine lining.”
“On the other hand, an overactive thyroid, a condition known as hyperthyroidism can also disrupt menstrual cycles by causing heightened levels of thyroid hormones, affecting the menstrual flow and cycle regularity. Furthermore, thyroid dysfunction can also contribute to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), further exacerbating menstrual irregularities and compromising overall reproductive health,” he added.
Effect On Fertility
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Elaborating on Thyroid’s impact on fertility, Dr Kapoor said, “Thyroid imbalance has a significant effect on fertility. Both the conditions, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can disturb the delicate hormonal environment that is essential for reproductive processes.”
Furthermore, he said, “In hypothyroidism, low thyroid hormone levels can cause irregular ovulation, reduced fertility, and an increased risk of miscarriage. Conversely, hyperthyroidism leads to elevated thyroid hormone levels, affecting menstrual regularity and potentially impairing fertility as well. Thyroid dysfunction may also contribute to conditions like PCOS, further creating more fertility complications. Furthermore, thyroid antibodies associated with autoimmune thyroid disorders can potentially harm the ovaries and interfere with egg quality as well.”
Also read: Thyroid Awareness Month: 5 Common Symptoms Of Thyroid Problems In Early 30s
Pregnancy Complications Due To Thyroid
Agreeing that Thyroid can cause complications during pregnancy said, “Untreated problems like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism during pregnancy may increase the chances of adverse outcomes. In hypothyroidism, there is an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental issues in the baby. Maternal hyperthyroidism can lead to complications like preeclampsia, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Thyroid dysfunction may also affect the baby's cognitive and neurological development. Moreover, thyroid antibodies associated with autoimmune thyroid disorders can pose additional risks. Proper management and monitoring of thyroid function during pregnancy are essential to reduce these risks and ensure healthy pregnancy.”
Prevention Of Fertility Issues Because Of Thyroid
Women with thyroid can work on preventing further complications in fertility. Dr Kapoor explained, “Regular thyroid function tests, especially before attempting to conceive, help in identifying any imbalances early. If hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism has been detected, prompt treatment with medication prescribed by a healthcare professional is important.”
“Monitoring and adjusting thyroid hormone levels throughout the pregnancy are essential to maintain optimal balance. Stay in touch with healthcare professionals to ensure that thyroid levels remain within the recommended range. Also, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can support overall reproductive health. People with thyroid disorders should communicate their plans for pregnancy to healthcare providers, to ensure a proactive approach to minimise potential complications and have successful fertility outcomes,” he added.
He emphasised on maintaining a proper lifestyle by saying, “Maintain a healthy lifestyle by adopting a well-balanced diet that is loaded with all the essential nutrients, engaging in regular exercise, and managing stress levels.”