Does Hypothyroidism Influence Fertility?

Hypothyroidism is a relatively common condition that can significantly impact a woman’s fertility and pregnancy. That’s primarily because the gland produces hormones necessary for reproduction and growth.

Although this condition presents challenges, our Melbourne fertility clinic can provide treatments and strategies to overcome this obstacle. If you are having difficulty getting pregnant, consider the following information about the influence of hypothyroidism and schedule an examination at the Viera Fertility clinic.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Also referred to as underactive thyroid, approximately 5 percent of people 12 and older suffer from some level of hypothyroidism. The small gland located in the front of the neck produces essential thyroid hormones. They regulate your energy levels and impact the overwhelming majority of bodily organs. When the thyroid doesn’t produce high enough levels of hormones, internal functions slow. These are among the telltale signs you may be suffering from hypothyroidism.

  • Unusual Fatigue
  • Excessive Weight Gain
  • Difficulty Handling Cold Weather
  • Muscle and Joint Pain
  • Sleeplessness
  • Thinning Hair
  • Reduced Heart Rate
  • Dry Skin
  • Depression
  • Heavy menstrual cycles and fertility issues

People who underwent radiation treatment to the neck or chest are more prone to reduced thyroid production. Various health conditions, lack of B12, and genetic disorders can cause the condition. And women who were pregnant within the last six months may see a decline in thyroid hormones. If you have symptoms, it’s essential to undergo an examination. Hypothyroidism can have serious implications on fertility and the pregnancy itself.

How is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?

Although you may have seemingly definitive signs of hypothyroidism, the condition cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone. A medical professional will compile a work-up of your medical history and that of family members. A physician will likely order a series of blood tests and imaging scans. After weighing all of this information, the condition may be confirmed or ruled out.

How Does Hypothyroidism Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?

Low levels of thyroid hormones can inhibit the release of eggs into a woman’s ovaries. This effectively makes fertilization difficult, if not impossible. The condition can also lead to autoimmune and pituitary disorders that may negatively affect fertility. When left untreated, women with hypothyroidism and their unborn children are at increased risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy and maternal health problems, such as the following.

  • Maternal Anemia
  • Myopathy (muscle pain, weakness),
  • Congestive Heart Failure
  • Placental Abnormalities
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage (bleeding)

Pregnancy complications and health risks are more prevalent among women with severe hypothyroidism. Those with relatively mild conditions may not experience symptoms. However, it’s generally prudent to monitor the issue throughout a pregnancy.

Hypothyroidism also poses a risk to the unborn child’s brain development. The hormone secreted by the thyroid gland is crucial to cognitive development. A child born with congenital hypothyroidism may suffer from an inactive thyroid gland, neurological dysfunction, or other abnormalities. These are reasons why it’s typically worthwhile to have a screening conducted through a fertility clinic Melbourne families trust.

How Does a Fertility Clinic Treat Hypothyroidism?

In many cases, hypothyroidism can be treated to encourage the production of eggs and manage a woman’s health during pregnancy. In conjunction with a fertility clinic doctor, hormone replacement has proven effective. These medications provide an almost identical substance to that produced by the thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism-related conditions, such as Hashimoto’s disease and other autoimmune thyroid disorders, can make the body sensitive to iodine. It’s crucial to map out a diet that provides adequate nutrition without worsening the condition. The caring professionals at Viera Fertility can help educate you about the following fertility dietary matters.

  • Understand what foods to limit or avoid entirely.
  • What to do if you are using iodine supplements.
  • Identify cough syrups that may contain iodine.

It’s important for those struggling with fertility and pregnant women with signs of hypothyroidism to remain optimistic. There are measures a fertility clinic can take to help you overcome this condition.

Contact a Fertility Clinic Melbourne Residents Trust

At Viera Fertility, our reproduction specialists are dedicated to helping your family grow. We are fully prepared to diagnose your condition and recommend the best possible path forward. If you are concerned about hypothyroidism, contact our Melbourne fertility clinic by dialing 321.751.4673. You can also fill out the contact form on our website, and a clinician will get back to you.