Does My Thyroid Affect My Period? Crompton Hospital Gynaecologist Answers

Many women are unaware of the effect that the thyroid can have on their period. If your period changes its pattern, it is recommended that you pop in for a quick appointment with your gynaecologist at Crompton Hospital. There are a number of things that could meddle with your regular cycle, but ignoring a change is not the right approach. Hypothyroidism could be one of the sources.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a disorder when your thyroid gland undersupplies thyroid hormones, and more women are affected than men.

These hormones are very important chemicals that regulate your energy, heart rate, internal temperature and bodily functions. An undersupply can result in:

  • Constipation
  • Lethargy
  • Depression
  • Excema and dry skin
  • Loss of hair
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Cramping
  • Inflamed joints
  • Increased weight
  • Unusual period cycles

The effects on your period cycles are caused by your body’s reaction to the undersupply in many ways, including:

  • Additional thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) is created by the hypothalamus.
  • Additional thyroid-stimulating (TSH) and prolactin hormones are created by your pituitary gland.

The raised prolactin level from the pituitary gland represses the hypothalamus’ ability to produce gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH is vital for the production of gonadotrophic hormones (FSH and LH) in your pituitary gland. These hormones are the foundation of ovarian function, and their absence will cause many problems in relation to periods, ovulating and childbearing.

What Effect Can Be Seen In Periods?

The lower levels of gonadotrophic hormones can halt ovulation which, in turn, will result in heavy periods. It is very important that you visit your gynaecologist in Crompton Hospital to discuss this as, if left untreated, unsystematic growth can occur as well as loss of the uterine lining. The timing is usually highly inconsistent.

The uterine lining can also become very thin in the absence of prolactin, which can cause the total halt of your period, and correct blood clotting can decrease, which is a high risk.

Anaemia is a common cause of hypothyroidism as well as sensitivity to cold and heart disease.

It is important to remember that hypothyroidism is not ALWAYS the cause of a change in your period cycle. Other conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, infections and cancer can bring on changes.

Conclusion

The human body is a complex system of even more complex sub-systems. Ignoring changes in your body is not a solution. Talk to us today about your health so we can make sure you are living your best life!

Chat with your Crompton Hospital gynaecologist today about your menstrual cycle irregularities!

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