Thyroid disorders are increasingly common among women and can have a significant impact on their reproductive health. Dr. Archana Juneja, a consultant endocrinologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, explained in an interview with HT Lifestyle that hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is more prevalent in women and is often accompanied by symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, and irregular or heavy periods. Hypothyroidism can disrupt ovulation, leading to infertility. Dr. Juneja emphasized that all patients undergoing fertility treatments should be screened for thyroid disorders, as they are a simple, treatable cause of infertility.

Impact of Hypothyroidism on Fertility and Pregnancy: Dr. Juneja further explained that uncontrolled hypothyroidism in a pregnant woman can cause numerous complications for both the mother and fetus. These include an increased risk of miscarriage, threatened abortion, and early pregnancy bleeding. High maternal TSH levels, particularly in the first trimester, can result in IQ impairments, hearing difficulties, and congenital anomalies in the baby, all of which are preventable with proper maternal thyroxine supplementation. For women with hypothyroidism who are undergoing treatment, Dr. Juneja recommends maintaining a pre-conception TSH level under 3 and increasing the medication dose by 25% once pregnancy is confirmed.

How hyperthyroidism can affect fertility and pregnancy:

Dr. Juneja also pointed out that while hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is less common, it can still lead to significant fertility challenges in women. She advised women on medication for hyperthyroidism to work closely with their endocrinologist to adjust their medication to the lowest safe dose both before conception and during pregnancy.

Prevention Tips: “It’s important to remember that women with thyroid disorders can conceive, have healthy pregnancies, and deliver healthy babies as long as their thyroid levels are well-managed,” Dr. Juneja emphasized. She also recommended thyroid screening for all newborns to detect congenital hypothyroidism early, as it is a preventable cause of intellectual disabilities.

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