Thyroid Problems in Women: Causes, Signs and Precautions
The most common cause of thyroid problems is an autoimmune reaction, and with regular testing and the right treatment the condition can be well controlled.
In this article 6 sections
The most common cause of thyroid problems is autoimmune disease, in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Iodine deficiency, inflammation of the thyroid after childbirth, family tendency and previous thyroid surgery or treatment can also be responsible. With timely testing and regular treatment, thyroid problems can be well controlled. In the video, Dr Sharmin Afroz briefly explains this topic.
01What does the thyroid gland do?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck. Its hormones play an important role in controlling metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, weight, mood and, in women, the menstrual cycle. When too little hormone is produced it is called hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), and when too much is produced it is called hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Thyroid problems are more common in women, particularly during the reproductive years and around the menopause.
02Main causes of thyroid problems
- Autoimmune disease: in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis the thyroid gradually makes less hormone, while in Graves’ disease it becomes overactive.
- Iodine deficiency: iodine is needed to make thyroid hormone. A lack of iodine can cause a swelling of the gland (goitre).
- Thyroid inflammation after childbirth (postpartum thyroiditis): in some women thyroid function changes temporarily in the months after giving birth.
- Thyroid nodules: lumps in the gland can sometimes produce extra hormone.
- Previous treatment: thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine treatment or certain medicines can reduce thyroid function.
- Family tendency: the risk is higher if a relative has thyroid disease.
03Signs that should raise suspicion
With an underactive thyroid you may notice tiredness, feeling cold, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, low mood and heavy or irregular periods.
With an overactive thyroid you may notice a racing heart, feeling hot, excessive sweating, weight loss, shaky hands, restlessness, poor sleep and lighter periods.
These symptoms can have many other causes, so a blood test is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
04Effects on periods, fertility and pregnancy
An imbalance of thyroid hormone can make periods irregular and interfere with ovulation, delaying conception. If thyroid disease is not controlled in pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth and effects on the baby’s development may increase. Women with a known thyroid condition should therefore talk to their doctor when planning pregnancy and let them know as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, because the dose of medicine often needs adjusting in pregnancy.
05Precautions to follow
- Have a thyroid test if you have symptoms, are planning pregnancy or are having fertility treatment.
- Take prescribed medicine every day as directed; do not stop it or change the dose yourself.
- Attend follow-up blood tests at the intervals your doctor advises.
- Use iodised salt in cooking, but do not take iodine supplements on your own.
- Tell your doctor if you have unusual tiredness, low mood or palpitations after having a baby.
When to see a doctor
- If the symptoms above last for several weeks
- If you notice a swelling or lump at the front of the neck
- If your periods are irregular or you are having difficulty conceiving
- If you are pregnant and have a history of thyroid disease
- Go to hospital urgently for a very fast heartbeat, chest pain, breathlessness, high fever with agitation, or confusion
Q & A
Frequently asked questions
Many people need long-term treatment, but in some conditions it is temporary. Your doctor will decide based on your test results.
Yes. When the thyroid is well controlled, most women have healthy pregnancies. Stay under medical advice from the planning stage.
Usually a blood test for TSH and, if needed, thyroid hormone levels. An ultrasound may be done if there is a lump in the neck.
Article & video by
Dr. Sharmin Afroz
Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Infertility Specialist and Laparoscopic Surgeon
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Anwer Khan Modern Medical College & Hospital.
