Hypothyroidism and Fertility - 6 Important Facts

The thyroid gland is one of the most vital keys to healthy fertility. The thyroid regulates the metabolic rate which is important for the development of follicles/eggs, and the early growth and implantation of an embryo. It's extremely important to have your thyroid fully checked before trying to conceive. This is especially true if you have a family history of thyroid disease, or have had any type of thyroid disorder in the past.

6 Facts about the Thyroid and Fertility
1) Hypothyroid is associated with poor egg development.
2) Hypothyroid is associated with hormonal imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles, which causes difficulty in conceiving.
3) Hypothyroid is associated early pregnancy loss and miscarriage.
4) Hypothyroid is associated with weight gain and insulin resistance which reduces pregnancy rates
5) Hypothyroidism causes increased cholesterol and cardiovascular disease, affecting the healthy circulation needed for optimal fertility.
6) If pregnancy is successful, if hypothyroidism goes untreated, the development of the fetus can be affected, including brain development.

The symptoms of hypothyoidism, are
1) Feeling cold.
2) Weight gain.
3) Hair Loss.
4) Depression .
5) Fatigue.
6) Dry Skin.
7) Constipation.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s extremely important to have your thyroid checked. It is advised to ask your doctor for the following tests: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), Free T3, Free T4, and Anti TPO (Anti Thyroid peroxidase – an autoimmune marker for antibodies which attack the thyroid gland).

It is important to differentiate Free T3 and T4 from Total T3 and T4. The Total numbers are rarely used anymore, as they don't reflect the active thyroid hormone available to bind to receptors.

It’s also important to note that if you test positive for the thyroid antibodies (Anti TPO or Anti Thyroglobulin) that you most likely have Hashimoto’s disease. So even if your other thyroid lab results are in the normal range, these antibodies will affect your fertility and therefore it is important to treat this condition before achieving pregnancy.

Also important is the range for TSH. In Canada, the normal range for TSH is up to 5.0 miU/Ml. However, the ranges in the USA often are only up to 3.0 mIU/ML. In addition, the ranges for pregnancy and fertility are up to 2.5 miU/mL. So, when told that your thyroid is normal, it’s always a good idea to ask for a copy of your lab results and have a close look. Please view this article for more detailed information on the < http://www.whitelotusclinic.ca/blog/dr-fiona-nd/thyroid-and-fertility/"> lab ranges for optimal thyroid function for fertility and pregnancy.