15 Jun Hypothyroidism and fertility

At Reproclinic we would like to dedicate this article to talk about the relationship between hypothyroidism and fertility, since, after some studies carried out in recent years, it has been possible to reach the conclusion that women who suffer from infertility are very likely to have low levels of thyroid hormone, that is, to suffer from hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is a disease of the thyroid gland, in which less hormones are produced than is necessary for the body to function properly. The thyroid is a gland located in the neck that has the function of regulating metabolism, although it also plays a very important role in reproduction. In the case of women, this gland interacts with the female sex hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) to ensure the proper functioning of the ovaries and the maturation of the eggs.

According to the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition, 10% of Spanish women suffer from thyroid disorders. The most common is hypothyroidism.

Thus, low thyroid hormone levels can interfere with the release of eggs, affecting a woman’s fertility. It is therefore important that this condition is monitored and diagnosed promptly. With the administration of a specific thyroid medication, such as Levothyroxine Sodium, the thyroid gland will function properly again and fertility will be restored. Iodine intake can also help to achieve more adequate levels of thyroid hormones, but this supplementation must always be prescribed and monitored by a doctor or nutritionist.

How does hypothyroidism affect female fertility?

Generally, this disease is common in young women between the ages of 15 and 45. The consequences of hypothyroidism in a woman of childbearing age may be as follows:

• Two or more miscarriages.
• Infertility or problems conceiving.
• Irregular menstrual cycles.
• Ovulation disturbances or anovulation, due to decompensation of the hormones that control the ovulation cycle (FSH and LH).

However, this thyroid problem not only affects fertility, but can also cause problems during pregnancy, leading to premature birth, restricted foetal growth or placental abruption.

How does hypothyroidism affect male fertility?

About 1% of male infertility cases are caused by hypothyroidism. This disease can cause the following problems for men:

• Alterations in sperm production and maturation.
• Teratozoospermia (seminal disorder with a high number of abnormally shaped spermatozoa).
• Decreased sperm count.
• Reduced libido or sexual desire.
• Decreased ejaculate volume.

The role of assisted reproduction in the face of this problem

When, after appropriate treatment, the patient is unable to reinstate her ovarian cycle, it is important to go to an assisted reproduction centre in order to achieve pregnancy through IVF, with her own eggs or with oocyte donation. Thanks to these techniques, the woman will be able to become pregnant and fulfil her dream. However, she will have to visit a specialist periodically to have her thyroid glands monitored and to keep her hormone levels under control.

Do you need to put yourself in our hands? Do not hesitate to arrange a free first consultation with us, so that we can analyse your case and decide which treatment or assisted reproduction technique will be the most appropriate in your case.