Fertility Problems and Thyroid Disease

At the Center for Assisted Reproduction (CARE) in Fort Worth, TX, we offer fertility treatment for a range of infertility problems. One issue that can cause fertility problems is thyroid disease.

An overactive or underactive thyroid can contribute to male or female infertility. Here, we discuss the fertility problems that can occur and how they can be treated.

Types of Thyroid Disorders

Patients may suffer from one of two types of thyroid conditions:

• Hyperthyroidism: Patients with hyperthyroidism overproduce the thyroid hormones.
• Hypothyroidism: Patients with hypothyroidism underproduce the thyroid hormones.

A blood test can be performed to test the patient’s thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. The normal range for this hormone is 0.5 to 4.5.

Female Fertility Problems and Thyroid Disease

Thyroid problems are associated with pregnancy loss, ovulatory disorders, irregular periods, and preterm birth. However, although these rates are higher among women with thyroid problems, that does not mean women with thyroid issues can’t conceive.

Specifically, hyperthyroidism can contribute to loss of libido, menstrual cycle irregularities, miscarriage, premature delivery, and low birth weight. Hypothyroidism can contribute to menstrual cycle abnormalities (including heavier and less frequent periods), a lack of ovulation, a low basal body temperature, and difficulty conceiving.

If you are wondering if an overactive or underactive thyroid could be causing fertility problems, see a doctor as soon as possible to check your thyroid levels. A fertility doctor can also help you track ovulation, measure your ovarian reserve, and check other factors related to your fertility.

It is important to take medication to regulate your thyroid hormone levels. In addition, we may recommend fertility treatment such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to increase your chances of having a child.

Male Fertility Problems and Thyroid Disease

Men are less likely to suffer from thyroid disease. But, the condition can occur, and it can affect male fertility.

According to research, thyroid issues can cause sexual dysfunction problems such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, and premature or delayed ejaculation. In addition, it is associated with lower sperm counts, poorer sperm quality, lower semen volume, and less sperm motility.

Treatment of Fertility Problems

The first step is to have you and your partner’s thyroid levels checked. If a thyroid issue is present, it is important to work with your primary care physician to bring your levels into the normal range with thyroid medication.

If you are still experiencing fertility problems after treating your thyroid condition, we will run the appropriate fertility tests to see what problems are present. For some patients, IUI, also known as artificial insemination, is a good option. Other patients may wish to move forward with IVF to give themselves the best chance of having a baby.

Contact Our Practice

To undergo a complete fertility evaluation and find out which course of treatment is right for you, contact the Center for Assisted Reproduction at your earliest convenience. Contact us online or call us in the Fort Worth area at (972) 661-9544 or (817) 540-1157. We look forward to hearing from you.