Thyroid Disease and Its Impact on Fertility- A Must Read

What is thyroid?

Thyroid gland is a small butterfly shaped gland that is located in the lower part of the neck. It is the largest endocrine glands in the body and secretes hormones like triiodothyronine also called T3, and thyroxine which is known as T4. The basic function of these hormones is to deliver energy to cells of the body. Some dysfunctions of the thyroid gland can cause many complications like Hypothyroidism where thyroid gland is underactive and Hyperthyroidism where thyroid gland is overactive. In most of the cases these disorders usually go unnoticed because they do not have any obvious symptoms, while as in case of diseases like Goiter the disorder can be blatantly obvious.

Thyroid and Infertility, how are they related?

Thyroid dysfunction may or may not affect fertility, but it can halt ovulation in women by upsetting the balance of the body’s natural reproductive hormones. Studies also indicate that maternal presence of thyroid antibodies can lead to early miscarriage. There are no findings as to indicate the exact reasons for miscarriages in women who suffer from thyroid dysfunction, but the relation between thyroid dysfunction and miscarriages is confirmed.

How does thyroid disease affect fertility in men?

In men thyroid disease may cause problems like low sperm count in men or may significantly reduce sperm motility (movement).

How does thyroid disease affect fertility in women?

In case of women, hyperthyroidism can lead to miscarriages, premature births and intrauterine growth retardation but timely treatment cut the chances of miscarriages to a significant level. In case of Hashimotos (a form of hyperthyroidism) separate treatment is to be followed. In case of women with Hypothyroidism disorders like hyperprolactinemia, luteal phase defect (LPD), anovulation (no ovulation, or release of an egg) and menstrual irregularities may occour. Hypothyroidism may also lead to polycystic ovaries, or cysts on the ovaries, which hamper ovulation and cause fertility issues. It can also lead high blood pressure, and are at greater risk of heart conditions.

Why is it important to treat thyroid and what happens if the disease goes untreated?

If thyroid goes untreated it may lead to various complications like heart rhythm irregularities, mental disorders, emotional disturbances like anxiety and depression, various eye disorders, excessive loss or gain in weight besides causing infertility. It also leads to complications like mental retardation and stunted growth in the newborns of mothers with thyroid disease.

Can I give birth to a healthy baby if I am suffering from Thyroid?   

While thyroid dysfunction is known to complicate pregnancy, but if managed properly you can have a 100% safe pregnancy. All you have to do is take your medications regularly and keep your thyroid TSH and T4 under control. Read everything you can about your condition and ask questions to your doctor about your condition.  There are many women who suffer from thyroid condition and manage to handle it smoothly even during pregnancy, all it requires is a little preparation and care.