LINK BETWEEN HYPOTHYROIDISM AND INFERTILITY

Edited by, SNEHA MAVIS

Hypothyroidism is a medical condition that occurs when the thyroid gland fails to generate enough of certain crucial hormones. It occurs when thyroid hormone regulation and production are disrupted, and it can cause a variety of symptoms  such as fatigue, poor energy, weight gain, and constipation, as well as infertility symptoms such as menstruation irregularity, difficulties ovulation, and difficulty conceiving.

The pituitary gland in the brain generates thyroid-stimulating hormone, which aid in the production of the thyroid gland's two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and (T4). These hormones contribute to the body's proper functioning.

Experts and medical doctors have recognized that low thyroid hormone levels can interfere with the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation), impairing fertility. Furthermore, certain underlying causes of hypothyroidism, such as autoimmune or pituitary problems, may impede fertility. Hypothyroidism affects both men and women. Hypothyroidism in males can impair sperm volume and motility, resulting in diminished fertility.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is often associated with hypothyroidism. Women of reproductive age (20-40 years) have a 2-4% frequency of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism affects approximately 20% to 30% of infertile women.

TSH levels in healthy people range from 0.5 to 4.5. Even a mild increase in TSH should be treated if a woman is trying to conceive. This should ideally be rectified so that the TSH levels are in the 2.5 range. These levels make it easier for a woman to conceive since her hormones will be in the proper range when she tries to conceive.

Thyroid hormones will return to normal with the use of the right medicine. It usually takes 3 weeks for thyroid levels to begin to normalize after starting medication. It also depends on how high the thyroid level was at the start. If the TSH level is high, it will take longer to return to the normal range. Thyroid disorders can be managed by adopting lifestyle modifications.