Hypothyroidism

It is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces less hormone than it should. It can occur in anyone, however, it is 8 times more common in women than in men.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

When the gland stops producing enough T3 and T4 hormones, there is a hormonal imbalance throughout the body and the ovaries and their natural ovulation cycle are affected. This is why fertility is compromised.

The cause of this condition is mainly due to thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), which affects the thyroid cells and prevents them from functioning properly. This is mainly caused by:

Viral infections

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland)

Other common causes of hypothyroidism include:

Congenital defects

Radiation therapies

Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland

Drugs such as amiodarone and lithium (predisposed patients)

Lack of iodine in the diet

Damage to the pituitary gland or pituitary gland

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Weakness or fatigue

Accelerated weight gain

Decreased libido

Sensitivity to cold

Muscle or joint pain

Hair loss and brittle nails

Pale or dry skin

Swelling of the face, hands and feet

Constipation

Decreased heart rate

Hyperprolactinaemia or high prolactin in the blood

Depression

Slower speech and movements

Difficulty concentrating and memory problems

Diagnosis of Hypothyroidism

To diagnose hypothyroidism, you should see your endocrinology doctor. He or she will perform a physical examination and then order a blood test to measure thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to make a definitive diagnosis.

Can I have a baby if I have hypothyroidism?

When it comes to thyroid disorders, medication is the recommended option to restore normal thyroid function, and if this is not sufficient, the best option is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

At Ingenes, we offer you our Multicycle In Vitro Fertilization programs, to increase your chances of becoming a mother by up to 96%.