How Does an Underactive Thyroid Affect Fertility?
Thyroid Functions The hypothalmus in the brain releases thyroid releasing hormone (TRH). This action triggers the pituitary gland in the brain to generate thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH acts on the thyroid gland for it to create two thyroid hormones: T4 and T3. These hormones play a role in the body’s processes to produce energy and maintain health. Effects of an Underactive Thyroid Without enough thyroid hormone, the body begins to slow down the rate of its processes. An underactive thyroid gland, known as hypothyroidism, results in a “run down” feeling. Many with this condition experience fatigue, intolerance to cold, dry skin, weight gain, constipation, heavier than normal menstrual periods and increased severity in premenstrual syndrome symptoms and depression. Female Fertility Effects When the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, ovulation does not occur regularly. Underactive thyroid function stimulates an increase in the amount of TRH released to the pituitary
