New Delhi: Thyroid health is vital in balancing and maintaining the overall well-being and reproductive system. The two main types of thyroid disease such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism do not only affect a person’s ability to conceive naturally but also increase risks for fertility treatments such as vitro fertilization (IVF). Proper understanding and knowledge about how thyroid health impacts reproductive outcomes can help build up a step toward parenthood for infertile couples.
Dr Mahesh Koregol- Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Koramangala, Bangalore, spoke about the association between thyroid health and fertility.
The Thyroid and Fertility Connection
A little butterfly-shaped structure in the neck is known as the thyroid gland. It generates hormones that control various biological activities, including metabolism, energy levels, and menstrual cycle. Thyroid disease disrupts the menstrual cycle among women which leads to irregular or absent periods, making it difficult to calculate ovulation, timing intercourse, and fertility treatments. The disease also reduces the possibility of successful pregnancy as it reduces sperm production in males.
Thyroid and IVF Outcomes
Couples having thyroid issues face a lot of challenges if they opt for IVF treatments. According to research, ovarian stimulation is an important phase in IVF treatment that requires the usage of drugs while inducing the creation of numerous eggs and can be affected by the interference of the thyroid. Abnormal thyroid hormone level negatively impacts the quality of an embryo and the implantation rates, which may differ from person to person. Early pregnancy difficulties such as miscarriage and preterm birth are caused by inadequate thyroid hormones. Sometimes, newborns suffer from high blood pressure and low birth weight due to untreated hyperthyroidism.
Managing Thyroid Health Before and During IVF
To recover fully from thyroid disorders, proper medical care must be taken. Patients should be examined carefully by blood tests, which include TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), T3, and T4 levels before they start off with IVF treatment. The timely identification and appropriate management of any thyroid disorder can result in a successful outcome. To avoid fluctuations in hormone levels during IVF and pregnancy, the disease should be monitored closely on a steady basis. Doctors may prescribe levothyroxine (for hypothyroidism) or antithyroid medications (for hyperthyroidism) to restore hormonal balance accordingly.
Supporting Thyroid Health Holistically
Moreover, adopting a healthy lifestyle like yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and improve thyroid function and fertility. Including diets with high iodine, selenium, and zinc can also help thyroid function.
A Journey of Hope
Couples can live their dreams of parenthood and can build a family with the help pf proper medical care and mental support. Increasing awareness about the negative impacts of thyroid disease on fertility can help generate awareness among the people to seek treatment at the earliest and will pave the way towards creating a healthy family.
Thyroid disorders take a toll on metabolism and are known to influence body weight. However, little do we realise that the side effects of this disorder can affect pregnancy and IVF results as well. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
