Thyroid Dysfunction and Women's Reproductive Health

April 2004 in “ Thyroid ”

Geoffrey P. Redmond

thyroid dysfunction hypothyroidism hyperthyroidism thyrotropin TSH postpartum thyroiditis euthyroid levothyroxine thyroid hormone thyroid-stimulating hormone

TLDR Thyroid problems can negatively affect women's reproductive health and pregnancy, and can cause symptoms like fatigue and depression, but not all women with these symptoms need treatment.

The 2004 study "Thyroid Dysfunction and Women's Reproductive Health" found that thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, can significantly impact women's reproductive health, including increasing rates of miscarriage, fetal death, and potentially affecting the cognitive development of offspring. Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy was also found to have potential adverse effects. The study recommended that all women planning pregnancy or already pregnant should have their thyrotropin (TSH) levels checked. The study also noted that while thyroid abnormalities are considered when diagnosing menstrual disorders, they are relatively infrequent causes. Postpartum thyroiditis was found to have a high incidence rate of 6%-8%. The study concluded that healthcare providers should be aware of thyroid disorders as potential causes of nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue and depression in women. However, most women with these symptoms were found to be euthyroid, meaning they have normal thyroid function, and therefore do not require replacement therapy. The study also questioned the long-standing practice of treating all hypothyroid patients with levothyroxine alone, though trial results were inconclusive.

View this study on liebertpub.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 287 results

community I’m 14 years old and I’m losing more hair than my dad. I’ve gone to the doctor 2 times because of this and I’ve received no help. I’m starting to feel like It’s worthless and my hairs gonna look like this forever. I don’t know how anyone could help me but it’s always worth a shot.

in Treatment 4 years ago

A 14 year old who is experiencing hair loss and has not received any help from the doctor, with advice being given to try different doctors, get tested for underlying conditions and intolerances, buzz it short as an option and treatments that could slow down or reverse the hair loss such as minoxidil, finasteride, RU58841 and addressing the cause of the hair loss.

community hairloss in my 20s has ruined my life.

in Research/Science 369 upvotes 3 weeks ago

A person in their 20s is struggling with hair loss, using treatments like minoxidil and finasteride. Suggestions include self-improvement, therapy, hair transplants, and focusing on acceptance and confidence.

community Ultimate Hairloss Flowchart (for beginners)

in Treatment 247 upvotes 1 year ago

The conversation discusses a hair loss flowchart for beginners, with mixed opinions on its effectiveness. Treatments mentioned include minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, microneedling, and vitamins.

community What other factors than DHT causes hair loss – and what to do about it?

in Treatment 2 years ago

Factors that can cause hair loss other than DHT, such as inflammation and diet, and potential treatments like scalp massages, minoxidil, citrulline, stretches, meditation, iron sulfate/Vitamin C, Vitamin D, protein and Dutasteride.

community [25, F] [RANT] Shedding since March 2020. This just isn’t fair.

in Female 42 upvotes 3 years ago

User "missbloombastic" has been experiencing hair loss since 2016 and tried min, fin, multivitamins, and spiro with mixed results. Another user shares their struggle with hair loss and its impact on self-esteem, while a third user suggests checking blood tests and confirming the cause of hair loss.

community 1.5 years fin results ( 0.25mg ED)

in Progress Pictures 165 upvotes 2 months ago

A user shared their 1.5-year experience using 0.25mg finasteride daily for hair loss, noting significant hair quality improvements and reduced scalp itch but mild erectile dysfunction. They managed side effects with daily 2.5mg Cialis and 5mg citrulline and plan to continue this routine.

Related Research

1 / 1 results

research Thyroid Dysfunction and Women's Reproductive Health

85 citations, April 2004 in “Thyroid”

Thyroid problems can negatively affect women's reproductive health and pregnancy, and can cause symptoms like fatigue and depression, but not all women with these symptoms need treatment.