•    How does thyroid lead to infertility?

The thyroid is located in the front of the neck and the gland is in butterfly-shaped. It works within the endocrine system in response with the pituitary gland. The functioning of this system is to produce and regulate hormones. The gland inside the brain creates thyroid-stimulating hormone and this triggers another hormone T3 and T4. Imbalance in these hormones will create a problem which eventually affects fertility. Moreover, it also creates the problem of irregular periods, ovulatory disorder, the miscarriage rate is high, preterm birth, and lower IQ’s.

• Why the problem is linked with fertility?

If the couple is infertile the doctor mostly checks the hormone level. During diagnosis, the problem of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism is found. This happens when the thyroid is producing the hormone in excess. The patient may also suffer other problems such as weight loss, anxiety, tremors, increase heart rate, brittle hair, and intolerance to heat. On the other hand,  Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is producing the hormone in very less quantity. Common issues are low energy, fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, muscle weakness, and intolerance to cold. The patient also has an irregular menstrual cycle and low basal body temperature. Eventually, this creates difficulty in conceiving as fertility has declined. Due to these issues, infertility treatment is required.

• How do I know if I am suffering from a thyroid problem?

It can be easily known with a blood test as it can access the TSH level. In the case of normal TSH is should be between 0.5 to 4.5. Hyperthyroidism is associated with a higher level and  Hypothyroidism is associated with lower level of TSH.

• Does thyroid problem also affect male fertility?

A thyroid problem can also affect male fertility such as low sperm count, sperm defects, reduced sperm movement, lower libido, and issue sustaining an erection. Additionally, it also lowers the male fertility hormone such as LH (luteinizing hormone), FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), and testosterone. In case, if you are facing problem then you should visit the IVF center and seek the help of fertility doctor.

• What I can do to solve the issue?

You should live a healthy life to prevent the problem of infertility because of the thyroid. Men and women who are overweight will face the issue of hormonal imbalance. In that case, you should exercise daily, reduce stress, consumption of coffee should be limited to two cups every day, don’t smoke, and limit alcohol to only one drink every day. Include vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and iodine in your diet.

• Which treatment can help to get rid of infertility due to thyroid?

Before getting treatment like IVF, ICSI, OR IUI, it is important that the level of thyroid hormone should be brought under control.