Thyroid problems can occur due to various reasons such as thyroiditis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, iodine deficiency, and more. There are two main types of thyroid disorders namely hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. When your body makes too much thyroid hormone, it leads to hyperthyroidism, whereas if your body makes less thyroid hormone, it causes hypothyroidism. Though thyroid problems are manageable, they can affect different functions in the body, including your reproductive health and fertility.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth editorial team, Dr Prachi Benara Consultant-Birla Fertility and IVF, Gurugram, discusses some of the ways thyroid problems can impact a woman’s chances of pregnancy.
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How Thyroid Impacts Women’s Reproductive Health
Thyroid diseases are among the most common endocrine disorders worldwide. According to data published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, around 4.2 crore people suffer from thyroid problems.These can have a significant impact on a woman's fertility and their chance of conceiving. Here are some key points to consider:
Hormonal Imbalance
Dr Benara said, “Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can disrupt the hormonal balance, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles and reduced fertility.”
Ovulation Disorders
Hypothyroidism can interfere with the release of eggs from the ovaries, leading to irregular or anovulatory cycles,said the doctor. This can make it difficult for women to conceive.
Reduced Egg Quality
According to Dr Benara, thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, can affect the quality of eggs produced by the ovaries. Poor egg quality can reduce the chances of successful fertilisation and implantation.
Increased Risk of Miscarriage
“Thyroid problems, especially untreated or poorly controlled hypothyroidism, can increase the risk of miscarriage in early pregnancy,” warns Dr Benara. “Thyroid hormones are crucial for the development and maintenance of a healthy pregnancy,” she added.
Impaired Fertility Treatments
Women with thyroid issues may face challenges in assisted reproductive technologies such as In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). Suboptimal thyroid function can negatively impact the success rates of fertility treatments, according to the doctor.
Menstrual Irregularities
Thyroid disorders can cause irregular menstrual cycles, with longer or shorter intervals between periods. This irregularity can make it challenging to predict ovulation accurately and time intercourse for optimal fertility.
Increased Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
There is a correlation between thyroid dysfunction and PCOS, a common hormonal disorder in women, said the doctor. PCOS can lead to irregular periods, anovulation, and fertility difficulties, she added.
Gestational Thyroid Disorders
Pregnancy itself can influence thyroid function. Some women may develop gestational thyroid disorders, such as gestational hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can impact the health of the mother and the developing foetus, the doctor explained.
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The Role Of Hormone Replacement Therapy
According to Dr Benara, women with hypothyroidism often require thyroid hormone replacement therapy to achieve optimal thyroid function. Adequate thyroid hormone levels are necessary for maintaining fertility and supporting a healthy pregnancy.
It's essential for women with known or suspected thyroid problems to seek medical attention and work closely with healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists and fertility specialists, to manage their thyroid condition effectively and maximise their chances of pregnancy, concludes Dr Benara.