The relationship between hypothyroidism and infertility has been clearly established however, in many instances, it can be often overlooked as a cause. Tests can detect the presence of thyroid deficiency and if you suspect a lack of thyroid then you should see your doctor.
What Is Hypothyroidism?
Essentially, hypothyroidism is the lack of hormone production. Fertility is affected when lower than normal levels of the thyroid hormone is produced. This affects ovulation. Prolactin, a hormone which helps a woman's milk production, is generally produced in elevated quantities due to hypothyroidism resulting in ovulation problems. It's associated with women who are at a reproductive age or stage of their lives.
It's important there is a good balance of thyroid hormone production. Why? Too little or too much production causes imbalnce which can lead to problems in a number of body functions.
Women should also be aware hypothyroidism can occur at both mild and severe levels. When tested, low levels of the thyroid stimulating hormone will suggest a mild instance of hypothyroidism while at the other end of the scale, high levels, and the case is more severe.
Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism
There are a number of symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. As indicated early, it is often overlooked as a cause in infertility issues because the symptoms associated with it can also be associated with several other conditions.
Fatigue and weight gain are just two symptoms which are common while other tell tale signs include irritability, quick heart beat, depression, unpredictable menstrual cycles and dry skin. Some people may exhibit just one of the symptoms while others will have a variety of them. In some cases where hypothyroidism has been established, no symptoms at all all were exhibited.
Treatment
If fertility issues are plaguing you right now and you haven't considered hypothyroidism and are exhibiting some of the symptoms mentioned then you should see your doctor. Diagnosis can usually be established via a blood test although, some patients may need extra testing.
Different levels of hypothyroidism affects different individuals so treatment levels will vary. In most cases, a hormone pill will be the most likely form of treatment at a level associated with the patients thyroid deficiency. Your doctor will probably re-evaluate treatment several times before a correct level is maintained. Such is the nature of thyroid hormone treatment that correct levels need to be an exact science.
Hypothyroidism and fertility issues have been debated hotly over the years but there is little doubt now there is a strong connection. Remember, it can be easily overlooked because some of it's symptoms are also associated with other conditions so just for peace of mind, talk to your doctor about it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Period 5 days late, scared.
By: muchlikefalling | 01-10-2008
Okay. Its Oct. 1 and my period had been Aug 26th. On sept 20, my boyfriend and i had a sleepover and got a little frisky. Once at around 6ish he fingered me, and then i jacked him off, he didnt get any on his hands but he washed his hands anyways, and so did i. then around midnight the same thing happened. then the next morning, he washed his hands and the same thing happened.i dont think that i COULD be preggers, but im freaking out. I'm always feelings bloated, about three days ago i had a tiny bit of spotting but nothing really and i have a little bit of clear discharge and last night i had a hot flash(preggers symptom or oncoming period?) Is it just because im stressing that its so late?my periods usually come 2 or 3 days late.
Children out of Wedlock !! Ur views Please...
By: paddster16 | 01-10-2008
What are CHRISTIANS and CATHOLICS views on children outside of Wedlock!?? And should we look down on GOD for having a SON outside of Wedlock with the Virgin Mary !? And doing it with another man's wife !?!?
I woz born into Religion but through the years of listening to the bible and preachings... Reality makes me ask these questions!!!
Pregnancy after D&C>
By: M.Leigh | 01-10-2008
how soon after D&C do women typically become pregnant? I had a missed miscarriage followed by D&C July 29,2008 and have had one cycle and think my second cycle is starting today.
I was on the pill for 18years, got off in April ...
By: WeeWee | 01-10-2008
I was on the pill for 18years, got off in April '08. Have very irregular periods. I am 2 days late with my period but have no pregnancy symptoms. ( maybe a little bloating but I am always bloated) I am overweight too. Took a HPT 3 days before my period was due and it came out negative. Could I still be pregnant?
Could i be in trouble here?
By: hold.tight | 30-09-2008
so the story goes it was the first time for me and my boyfriend and we weren't really planning to go that far but he said he was out.... i'm not overly stressed, at least no more then usual, i haven't changed my routines in the way of eating or exercising any more then i have in the past, which hasn't ever effected me... right now i'm only about 3 days late, but should i talk to him? I don't want him to worry if it's nothing....and any ideas on how to talk to him about it? all help and advice is welcome please!!!!
Could i be pregnant
By: mimi | 30-09-2008
i came off my pill 22 days ago two days after i came of it i had a period since then i have been having sex quite frequently could i be pregnant.
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