Thyroid Disorders and Infertility: The Link Between Hormone Imbalance and Conception

Thyroid Disorders and Infertility: The Link Between Hormone Imbalance and Conception

When trying to conceive, most people focus on reproductive organs and fertility hormones like estrogen or testosterone. But the thyroid gland—though small—plays a major role in fertility, pregnancy, and overall reproductive health. If you're having trouble getting pregnant, a thyroid imbalance could be part of the reason.

Understanding the Thyroid’s Role in Fertility

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy, and body temperature by producing hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones also affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, and early embryo development.

When thyroid hormone levels are out of balance—either too high or too low—it can disrupt reproductive function in both women and men.

Hypothyroidism and Fertility

Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) is more common in women and may cause:

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Anovulation (lack of ovulation)
• Increased risk of miscarriage
• Fatigue and weight gain that may make conception more difficult

Even subclinical hypothyroidism—where symptoms are mild or absent—can impact fertility, especially in women undergoing fertility treatments.

Hyperthyroidism and Fertility

Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) can also interfere with conception by:

• Causing irregular or light menstrual cycles
• Leading to difficulty maintaining a pregnancy
• Increasing the risk of premature birth or low birth weight

Common causes include autoimmune conditions like Graves’ disease.

The Impact on Male Fertility

Thyroid imbalances can also affect sperm count, motility, and morphology in men. Though less common, it’s an important consideration during a fertility workup.

Diagnosing and Treating Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid dysfunction is typically diagnosed through simple blood tests measuring TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), free T4, and sometimes thyroid antibodies.

Treatment depends on the underlying condition:

• Hypothyroidism is managed with levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone.
• Hyperthyroidism may require antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine treatment, or, in some cases, surgery.

Once thyroid levels are well-managed, many individuals regain normal fertility.

When to See a Specialist

If you’ve been trying to conceive for six months to a year without success—or if you have a history of thyroid issues—consult a fertility specialist. Addressing a thyroid imbalance may be the key to improving your chances of conception.

At University Reproductive Associates, we take a whole-body approach to fertility and routinely test thyroid function as part of our diagnostic workup. Our goal is to identify and treat all potential barriers to pregnancy with personalized, evidence-based care.

Schedule a consultation with University Reproductive Associates today to find out if a thyroid imbalance could be affecting your fertility—and how we can help you move forward with confidence.