Hypothyroidism – Can it impact fertility?

Sometimes infertility is caused by a condition of the thyroid known as hypothyroidism. Both men and women need to have enough thyroid hormone for a successful pregnancy. Thyroid secretion is essential not only for egg fertilization and development, but also for sperm production. Hypothyroidism along with infertility in a male causes low sperm count or the reduction of the sperm's lifespan. If a woman does not treat a thyroid problem, she is more likely to have a higher chance of miscarriage.

This tiny gland at the base of the neck can cause serious health complications if it is over or under active. Hypothyroidism can cause decreased sex drive, menstrual irregularities, failure to ovulate, miscarriage, premature childbirth and preeclampsia. For women, treating hypothyroidism is an important part of any effort to correct infertility. In fact many younger women with hypothyroidism become aware of this condition for the first time during a fertility evaluation.

Women who have been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant for more than a year, have irregular menstrual cycles, or have had more than two miscarriages should talk to their doctors about screening for possible thyroid issues. A family history of thyroid disease is another reason to test.

How hypothyroidism influences fertility

Thyroid dysfunction can shorten the length of the luteal phase that leads to heightened risk of miscarriage early on in pregnancy. Decreased thyroid hormone causes low levels of progesterone. This inhibits thickening of the uterine wall, preventing the embryo from attaching. Some women with hypothyroidism also have polycystic ovaries or cysts on the ovaries which hamper ovulation and can cause fertility problems.

Symptoms and treatment

Fatigue and weight gain, irritability, quick heart beat, depression, irregular menstrual cycles, sensitivity to cold, and dry skin are all symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Treatment with oral thyroid hormone supplements will often correct the hypothyroidism and results in a return to normal ovulation and regular menstrual cycles.

For a woman having difficulty becoming pregnant and facing irregular menstruation, a simple blood test to check thyroid gland function is an important part of infertility evaluation during the very first check. An underactive thyroid gland can be easily treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Women who are pregnant or who desire to start a family need to start thyroid hormone therapy if they have a borderline thyroid function. This is to maintain a thyroid hormone level within high normal range during pregnancy. Uncontrolled hypothyroidism in pregnant women is likely to have long-term effects on the children they bear.The mother is the only source of thyroid hormones for the baby until the baby’s thyroid gland becomes fully functional after around 12 weeks of pregnancy. Hence a woman is at an increased risk of miscarriage, and the baby is at increased risk of developmental problems if she lacks sufficient thyroid hormones.

The good news is that most women with thyroid disease are able to have an uneventful pregnancy and healthy baby. East Bay Fertility Center California, offers a wide range of infertility treatments along with expert medical counseling to couples facing difficulty in conceiving. Under the guidance of Dr. Ellen U. Snowden, Medical Director and Reproductive Endocrinologist, medical staff at East Bay provides dedicated treatment for infertility and reproductive endocrine issues. Testing for thyroid dysfunction is a part of the basic infertility evaluation at the Center. With the right type of treatment and intervention, the Center assists couples who have been having problems conceiving to overcome those difficulties in the shortest possible time in order to realize their dreams of having a healthy baby. Call 925.828.9235 for a free initial consultation.