Hormonal health plays a critical role in fertility, and within this complex system, the thyroid gland plays a key role. This gland, located at the base of the neck, regulates metabolism and is involved in the production of hormones that affect the menstrual cycle and ovulation. However, when their function is altered, difficulties in conceiving can occur, which can lead to uncertainty and delays in appropriate treatments.
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect egg quality, menstrual cycle regularity, and embryo implantation. In many cases, thyroid disorders go unnoticed, as their symptoms can be confused with other health problems. Fatigue, weight changes, skin and hair alterations, as well as mood problems, are some signs that could be related to a malfunction of the thyroid and that, in turn, impact fertility.
Understanding the relationship between the thyroid and fertility is essential to detect any imbalances early and address them with the right treatment.
The Role of the Thyroid in Fertility
The thyroid regulates numerous functions in the body, including metabolism and the production of hormones that directly influence the reproductive system. Its hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), affect the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), both of which are essential in ovulation. When there is an imbalance in the levels of T3 and T4, the ovulatory process can be altered, reducing the chances of pregnancy.
In addition, the thyroid influences the development of the endometrium, the tissue in the uterus where the embryo is implanted. A thyroid malfunction can generate an endometrium that is unsuitable for implantation, making conception difficult. It can also affect the maturation of eggs, compromising their quality and reducing the rate of fertilization.
Hypothyroidism and fertility
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, slowing metabolism and affecting reproductive function. One of its main consequences is the alteration of the menstrual cycle, generating irregular menstruation, anovulatory cycles (where an egg is not released) and even amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
An important aspect of hypothyroidism is its relationship to hyperprolactinemia, an increase in prolactin levels that can inhibit ovulation. In addition, in women who manage to conceive, untreated hypothyroidism can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, preeclampsia, and complications in fetal development. For this reason, it is crucial to have a thyroid function check when there are difficulties in getting pregnant.
Hyperthyroidism and its impact on conception
Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of hormones, speeding up metabolism and affecting fertility. Women with hyperthyroidism may experience irregular menstrual cycles, with little bleeding or no menstruation at all. In addition, excess thyroid hormones can lead to defective ovulation, decreasing the chances of pregnancy.
In cases of pregnancy achieved with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, the risks increase significantly. There is a higher chance of miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. It can also affect the baby, causing problems in his thyroid development. Therefore, a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment before trying to conceive is essential.
Diagnosis and treatment
To assess thyroid function, specialists use laboratory tests such as TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), T3 and T4, as well as the measurement of thyroid antibodies in cases of autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. An accurate diagnosis, which can only be made by health professionals, allows the appropriate treatment to be established according to each case.
Treatment may include medication to regulate hormone levels, dietary changes, and iodine supplementation if needed. In addition, leading a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and stress control, contributes to the stability of thyroid function and improves the chances of conceiving. Thyroid disorders can be a determining factor in fertility, but with a timely diagnosis and proper treatment, it is possible to recover hormonal balance and increase the chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy. If you’ve experienced difficulties conceiving, irregular menstrual cycles, or symptoms associated with a thyroid disorder, consulting a fertility specialist may be the first step to finding an effective solution.
