Within the dysfunctions of the thyroid glands, hypothyroidism is one of the most common disorders that is generated and is characterized by the deficient production of hormones known as thyroid. The thyroid is located below what is known as Adam’s apple, a gland located in the lower sector of the neck and front of the windpipe. It is an endocrine gland, and its primary function is to regulate the speed of the functions of all the cells that the body contains, which is done by producing two essential hormones known as T3 or triiodothyronine and T4 or thyroxine.
The malfunction of T4 can cause various alterations in the body and cause significant concerns to those who suffer from this, so it is essential to consult a doctor for proper treatment. In the case of female patients, it is believed that it can affect fertility. For this reason, the following FastlyHealarticle will answer a great question that many women have: can I get pregnant if I have hypothyroidism?
Table of Contents
What is hypothyroidism
It is a disease in which the thyroid gland is affected, which causes a lower amount of thyroid hormones than the body usually produces. These hormones are responsible for stimulating body tissues to form proteins and, at the same time, increase the amount of oxygen used by the various cells.
Due to all the aforementioned, hypothyroidism can cause various symptoms and affect fertility, although this will be developed later. It is essential to know that women are ten times more likely to suffer from this alteration in the thyroid gland, and this is increased in women with menopause.
There are several types of hypothyroidism. The primary is the most common. It is characterized by the fact that the gland does not work correctly and can cause the appearance of goiter, an abnormal enlargement of the gland.
In secondary hypothyroidism, the gland works appropriately, without any problems, but the pituitary cannot produce a thyroid-stimulating hormone, which means that the gland does not produce hormones.
Tertiary hypothyroidism affects the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that handles behavior that stops producing the hormone thyrotropin. It is responsible for stimulating the pituitary gland and, by not occurring, causes a chain reaction that cancels the thyroid gland and the pituitary gland.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
- Tiredness and chronic weakness.
- Feeling cold
- Headaches, constipation, and edematous eyelids.
- Weight gain for no apparent reason and decreased appetite.
- Dry, rough, pale, challenging, and scaly skin.
- Lethargy and drowsiness.
- Brittle nails with slow growth and hair loss.
- Reduced heart rate and blood pressure.
- Stiffness and muscle aches.
- Increase in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides.
Hypothyroidism and fertility: what are the chances of getting pregnant?
The symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary significantly between each patient. Suppose an adolescent has this alteration in the thyroid gland and is not diagnosed due to a lack of correct medical controls. In that case, it can cause genital bleeding, functional ovarian cysts, and the appearance of early breast development.
In adult women, it can cause changes in the secretion of the hormone LH due to an increase in prolactin and a lack of thyroxine, which produces an alteration of luteinization and progesterone production, which means that it also modifies the function of the ovaries and causes irregularities in the menstrual cycle.
Although a woman with hypothyroidism can become pregnant, if T4 metabolic disturbances are significant, she may not ovulate monthly as she should, so it could take longer to conceive a child. However, the state of hypothyroidism can cause abortions during the first trimester of gestation. Therefore, it is essential to carry out the correct medical treatment before seeking fertility.
It is essential to know that some pregnant women who receive treatment with levothyroxine or LT4 are carriers of antithyroid antibodies. However, it is necessary to follow the instructions set by the specialist strictly.
Suppose the condition is unknown and a woman is expecting a child, and the pregnancy continues without proper treatment for hypothyroidism. In that case, the consequence may be some disorders in the child’s development. This is why if you are expecting a baby or trying to get one, make numerous medical consultations to ensure that your health and that of your child are correct.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Can, I get pregnant if I have hypothyroidism? We recommend that you enter our Endocrine System category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.