Thyroid Problems in Women: Symptoms, Periods, Fertility and Treatment

Thyroid Problems in Women: Symptoms, Periods, Fertility and Treatment

Thyroid problems can affect women at stages of their life. Women may feel tired all the time. They may or may not note weight changes, or notice hair fall or mood changes, or maybe have periods that are irregular. Quite often women will assume that these are either stress related or part of hormonal fluctuations that are going on inside of their bodies.

The thyroid is an organ located at the neck of women. This organ makes hormones that regulate the energy levels of a woman, her metabolism and other important functions of the body. When the thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, it can cause other effects that a woman will eventually experience with regard to her body.

It will benefit women to know the more prevalent symptoms exhibited by women, which will help them determine if they may indeed need to seek medical attention with regard to thyroid function.

Common Thyroid Symptoms in Women

For women, common thyroid symptoms may include the following. Professionals and women who are experiencing thyroid dysfunction note that the symptoms listed below can vary from one person to another, but all should be paid close attention to.

• Fatigue or lack of energy all the time
• Weight gain and/or weight loss for no apparent reason
• Being cold all the time and/or being hot all the time for no apparent reason
• Hair loss or changes in hair growth
• Changes in skin moisture levels
• Mood fluctuations or uncharacteristic irritability
• Sleeping either for more duration or having difficulty in sleeping altogether
• Slower resting heart rate
• Constipation or more than typical trips to the bathroom
• Difficulty with concentrating to complete tasks or activities

Thyroid Health and Menstrual Health

Thyroid hormone has an impact upon a woman's menstrual cycle. In the case of hypothyroidism it can sometimes relate to heavier or irregular periods, and with hyperthyroidism the periods may be lighter or less frequent. Should there be an unexplained change in periods or menstrual cycle, it is always appropriate to consult with a doctor, especially if the change persists.

Thyroid Health and Fertility

Thyroid function can also play a vital role for a woman who is thinking of getting pregnant. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have effects on the menstrual cycle and may lead to fertility problems in some women. If you are considering getting pregnant or experiencing difficulty conceiving, your doctor will probably also check thyroid function and screen for other possible factors.

Thyroid Health and Pregnancy

Thyroid health plays a significant role for both women and the developing baby. Women with an established thyroid disorder, or those already taking therapy for a thyroid condition and planning pregnancy, need to speak to their doctor. Thyroid hormone levels might need to be monitored or investigated during pregnancy depending on the clinical condition.

Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism in Women

Here are two of the most common thyroid disorders that affect women.

Hypothyroidism

This occurs when the thyroid doesn't make enough of the hormone it needs. In women it could result in fatigue, weight gain, feeling chilled, chronic constipation, dry skin, and changes in hair.

Hyperthyroidism

This disorder causes the thyroid to make too much thyroid hormone, more than the body requires. In women, it is associated with weight loss, elevated perspiration, heat sensations, nervousness, insomnia and a rapid or abnormal pulse.

How Are Thyroid Problems Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your signs and symptoms as well as your history and may order blood tests.

For testing, a TSH test is often used for assessment of thyroid function. Depending on your symptoms, tests of T3 and T4, or thyroid antibody tests, may also be ordered. Requirements may vary for individuals.

How Are Thyroid Conditions Treated?

Thyroid disease is treated according to its type and cause. Many thyroid diseases can be treated with the help of medication and other remedies, under the observation of health experts. Treatment should be planned in consultation with the concerned doctor only. Do not stop or change medication for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism without consulting a doctor.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Anyone feeling excessively tired, experiencing unexplained changes in weight, hair fall or increased hair loss, changes in menstruation, sleep disturbance, or inability to withstand heat or cold, should consult their doctor to rule out these problems. Those who are trying to get pregnant or already have a thyroid condition must visit their doctor and explain their symptoms.

If you are looking for a general physician in Ajmer for thyroid-related concerns, an experienced doctor can evaluate your symptoms and guide you about the appropriate tests and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can thyroid problems affect periods?
Yes. Thyroid issues can affect menstrual cycles and bring lighter or heavier menstrual periods, or make them less regular.

Can thyroid problems cause hair fall?
Thyroid problems could sometimes lead to thinning of hair or hair loss, though there are numerous other reasons for hair loss.

Can thyroid problems affect fertility?
Thyroid problems can impact the monthly cycle of women and may contribute to infertility issues in some individuals. Treatment by your healthcare provider can help determine the potential cause of the problem.

Can thyroid problems affect pregnancy?
Yes. With proper monitoring and treatment, pregnant women who have this condition can do quite well during and after their pregnancies.

Can an underactive thyroid cause weight gain?
Yes, an underactive thyroid can contribute to weight gain, although there could be quite a few other factors involved as well.

Which test checks thyroid function?
A TSH blood test is most frequently ordered to assess overall thyroid function. Further testing can be advised according to specific symptoms or medical conditions.

Conclusion

Thyroid conditions in women can sometimes go unnoticed because their symptoms may look like stress, hormonal changes or a busy lifestyle. Changes in periods, weight, hair, mood and energy can have many possible causes, including thyroid problems.

If you have persistent symptoms, getting a proper medical evaluation can help identify the actual cause. Consult a qualified general physician for medical evaluation and guidance.