Are you concerned your thyroid is having an impact on your fertility? Solving thyroid problems before conceiving is more important than you think! The thyroid is an important gland for fertility. Hormonal imbalance can act as a trigger for thyroid problems. Before we begin to learn different ways thyroid issues may affect your fertility, it is important to know how the thyroid functions.
The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland. It is located just below the larynx, in the lower part of the neck. The purpose of the thyroid gland is to take iodine from foods we consume and convert them into thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid cells are the only cells in the body which can absorb iodine. The thyroid combines iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to make T4 and T3. T4 and T3, once released into the blood stream control our metabolism. The thyroid is also responsible for proper growth, development and repair of the body. It is extremely important for the development of the central nervous system. The metabolism of every single cell in our body is dependent on thyroid hormones. The thyroid produces about 80% T4 and 20% T3, but T3 has four times the strength of T4.
The thyroid is controlled by the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is controlled by the hypothalamus. When thyroid hormones drop too low, the pituitary gland releases Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). The release of TSH stimulates the thyroid to release more T3 and T4. Healthy regulatory release of T3 & T4 signal the pituitary to decrease the release of TSH. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release TSH through the release of Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH). All of this can be confusing. To break it down into simpler terms, imagine it like this: The hypothalamus is like you, a person who can control the thermostat in your home. The thermostat is the pituitary, and the heat is thyroid hormones. As the heat rises (thyroid hormones) it signals the thermostat (pituitary) to shut off. As the heat decreases, it signals the thermostat to run again. The control person (hypothalamus) sets the thermostat (pituitary) to a regulate the heat (thyroid).
Video: Thyroid Problems and How They Affect Fertility
Thyroid Disease and Fertility
Whether you suspect a thyroid problem or know you already have a thyroid issue, there are some significant symptoms associated with fertility. Below I have listed those symptoms in relation to fertility only. There are many other signs and symptoms associated with the below thyroid diseases. If you suspect a thyroid issue, please research each pattern of disease more and discuss it with your doctor.
Hyperthyroidism
Overactive tissue in the thyroid gland that leads to overproduction of thyroid hormones. This is most commonly caused by inflammation of the thyroid, called thyroiditis. This can be caused by a variety of reasons and may lead to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis .
Fertility Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism for Women
- Loss of libido
- Amenorrhea (Absent Period)
- Postpartum thyroiditis, occurs in 7% of women within the first year after childbirth
Fertility Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism for Men
- Abnormal enlargement of the mammary glands in males
- Feminization
- Loss of libido
Hypothyroidism
This is when the thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormones. This commonly happens when there is iodine deficiency. Hypothyroidism happens in women more often than men.
Fertility Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism for Women
Early signs:
- Female infertility
- Any type of problem with the menstrual cycle
- Hyperprolactenimia (elevated prolactin hormone)
- Galactorrhea (flow of milk in the absence of pregnancy or childbirth)
Late signs:
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
- Low Basal Body Temperature (BBT)
For Men, uncommon signs that show up affecting fertility:
- Decreased libido in men; creates impairment of testicular testosterone synthesis
- Abnormal enlargement of the mammary glands in males
Untreated, or poorly treated hypothyroidism may cause serious complications for pregnancy, in both the mother and the baby. Because Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may lead to hypothyroidism, these risks for complications fall under that thyroid problem as well.
Complications for the mother:
- Anemia (iron deficiency)
- Miscarriage
- Preeclampsia
- Placental abruption (placenta detaches from wall of uterus pre-term)
- Postpartum hemorrhage
Complications for the baby:
- Preterm birth
- Low birth weight
- Thyroid Problems
- Stillbirth
- Birth defects
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
This thyroid disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder. The thyroid gland is destroyed by cellular and antibody immune response. As the thyroid gland is attacked, the thyroid function decreases, less and less thyroid hormones are released which leads to Hypothyroidism. Hashimoto’s main fertility symptom is infertility. Hashimoto’s is 7 times more common in women than men.
Some women experience thyroid issues after pregnancy, around 7%. 20% of those women that experience hyperthyroidism will develop Hashimoto’s thyroditis. For these women, the thyroid becomes overactive due to inflammation and then this triggers an immune response. The immune response attacks the thyroid, which eventually decreases its function and leads to hypothyroidism. Doctors still do not know why autoimmune diseases happen.
Treating Thyroid Problems Naturally
Thyroid function must be controlled before you get pregnant!
It is important to treat thyroid problems right away if you are wanting to have a baby. Preconception planning is essential to a healthy pregnancy for women with thyroid problems. Women with untreated or neglected thyroid problems may affect their baby’s growth and brain development. Untreated thyroid problems may also lead to infertility, miscarriage, or a baby born with birth defects. It is important to see a doctor about thyroid issues. Make a plan with your doctor. If you desire natural treatments it is important to speak with your doctor to see if that is a possibility for you. Below are some ways to supplement and support proper thyroid function. If you are interested in any of these, talk to your doctor about the possibility of adding them to your natural health plan. If you already take medications and are wondering if any of these supplements are safe for use with your medication, please speak with your doctor first, prior to using them.
Iodine Rich Food Sources
A diet rich in whole foods should always be the first way to support overall health, including thyroid health. Poor diet and nutritional deficiency are a few of the top reasons for thyroid problems. Choose organic foods when possible, as the thyroid is very sensitive to environmental toxins. Too much iodine can also cause goiter, so do not go overboard. More is not always better, it is about balance. It is important to get a balanced amount of iodine in the diet. People with hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency may benefit from increasing the recommended daily allowance of iodine rich foods.
- Raw cranberry
- Whole fat yogurt
- Raw dairy products
- Navy Beans
- Strawberries
- Potatoes with skin left on
- Himalayan Crystal Salt (table salt is often enriched with iodine, but this salt has naturally occurring iodine)
Maca Supports Thyroid Health
Maca has a balancing effect on the hypothalamus, which controls, stimulates and balances the other endocrine glands: pituitary, adrenals, ovaries, testes, thyroid and pancreas, therefore Maca may actually help thyroid issues by nourishing the hypothalamus which controls the thyroid’s function. Under section 6 of the DSHEA (Dietary Supplemental Health and Education Act) the following statement is listed for Maca: Supports the Thyroid.
Some people have written us stating that other websites say that maca is bad for people with thyroid problems. The maca we use is Lepidium meyenii, which is golden in color. There are other varieties of maca that have a variety of other colors; red, purple and black. The darker varieties red, purple and black do contain higher amounts of iodine, which may not be good for some thyroid problems; this has not been linked to the golden variety. On the flip side, some thyroid problems are linked to low iodine levels in the diet, so those other varieties may be helpful in those situations. As always it would be best to talk to your health care provider about looking into using the darker varieties of maca for thyroid health. The darker varieties have also been linked, when consumed in very high amounts to potentially causing goiters.
Systemic Enzyme Therapy
Systemic enzymes have proven very effective in supporting proper immune function and response in people with autoimmune disease like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Systemic Enzyme Therapy also may be worth considering if you have Hyperthyroidism. The chronic inflammatory state of that condition may be greatly improved by systemic enzyme blends. The systemic enzyme blend works as a biological response modifier; working with the body’s own immune defense system to moderate inflammatory response. Systemic enzymes break down the proteins in the blood that cause inflammation. The reduction in inflammation, increase in proper blood formation, increase in proper circulation hinders scar tissue and adhesion formation, which may prevent permanent damage to the thyroid gland.
Supplementation for Thyroid Support
There are key nutrients to support the thyroid including vitamins, minerals and herbs. Thyroid hormones are made from iodine and tyrosine.
- Zinc, with vitamins E and A function together in the manufacture of thyroid hormone.
- Selected B vitamins and Vitamin C are also necessary for normal thyroid hormone production.
- Zinc, copper and selenium are required co-factors for normal blood levels of thyroid hormones and normalization of thyroid activity.
- Ashwagandha and rhodiola are two key herbs that may support the thyroid gland, as well as the rest of the endocrine system.
Seaweed for Protection and Healing of the Thyroid
The thyroid is very sensitive to poor diet and environmental toxins. It plays a key role in our body’s metabolism. Hypothyroidism associated with iodine deficiency may be treated with simple iodine supplementation. Adequate amounts of iodine rich foods in the diet have been found to protect the thyroid. One great source of iodine is seaweed. I have seen many people successfully heal thyroid issues by consuming more iodine rich foods such as seaweed. It is also just as important to limit how much seaweed you eat; too much iodine may be damaging. 2-3 servings a week should be adequate.
Reduce Stress, Support the Adrenal Glands
How does stress play a role in thyroid function? We live in a time where there is more chronic stress than ever. Our adrenal glands can handle acute stressful situations with no problem, but they cannot handle chronic stress. Chronic stress taxes our adrenals. When our adrenals have a lot of stress placed on them it puts our body into a state of catabolism. Catabolism is the break-down of our bodies; destructive metabolism. Over time the body will slow down the thyroid as a protective measure. Many natural health care practitioners will agree that in order to treat the thyroid effectively, you must first address stress reduction and adrenal support. Adrenal fatigue may lead to not only thyroid issues, but a compromised immune system as well.
If you are a person that has a stressful life, have been diagnosed with adrenal fatigue, or have found your body is not responding as well as you thought to thyroid medications or natural supplements; consider supporting your adrenal glands as well!
In order to fully support your body through stressful times, you must also learn methods of coping with stress in a health and positive way!
“Thyroid disease is a disorder that, left untreated, can exact pronounced consequences on health and quality of life…Long-term, untreated thyroid conditions significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, reproductive cancer, and multisystem failure.” – Mary Bove, Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health
The key to getting pregnant and carrying to term successfully, in the best health, is to address thyroid issues prior to conception. Prepare your body today! Research signs and symptoms of thyroid problems, to help you determine if you should talk to your doctor about the possibility of a thyroid issue for you, or your male partner. Ask your doctor about testing for thyroid function if you have been trying to get pregnant for a year or more. Be sure to exercise regularly, eat a whole food diet, while working to keep stress at bay to protect your body from thyroid problems!
To learn more about related subjects covered in this article, please visit the following links:
Adrenal Glands- Is My Adrenal Health Affecting My Fertility?
- Romm, Aviva. M.D. (2010). Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health. St. Louis, Missouri: Churchill Livingstone.
- Van De Graaff, Kent M., Fox, S., LaFluer, K.M. (1997). Synopsis of Human Anatomy & Physiology. WCB Publishers.
- Sargis, Robert M., M.D., Ph.D. (n.d.). How Your Thyroid Works – Controlling hormones essential to your metabolism. Retrieved from: http://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/thyroid/how-your-thyroid-works
- Venes, D. (2017). Tabers cyclopedic medical dictionary. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.
- Women’s Health.gov. Hashimoto’s disease fact sheet. Retrieved from: https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/hashimotos-disease
- Group, Edward, D.C., N.P., DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM. (1/18/2011). 7 Food Rich in Iodine. Retrieved from: https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/iodine-foods/
- How Chronic Stress Can Cause a Thyroid Condition. Retrieved from: https://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/chronic-stress-thyroid-condition/
Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000’s of women on their journey to Motherhood.
Hi everybody! A friend of mine, from CCL (couple to couple league) told me that High BBT, could be related to Hiperthyroidism. I mean, High BBT is one of its symptoms. Is that correct?, and please tell me more about normal/Abnormal ranges of BBT. Are there any other causes of High BBT? Thanks
Dear Aline,
Elevated basal body temperature (BBT) in the follicular phase can be indicative of excess heat or inflammation, hormonal imbalance, or overactive thyroid. The sure way to know if you have hyperthyroidism is to have testing with a medical or naturopathic doctor. BBT should be elevated in the luteal phase if ovulation occurs and adequate progesterone is being produced and in pregnancy.
i have low tsh 0.01
t3 is 2.83
t4 is 1.26
I’m feeling lump in my throat while eating, hair loss,.its very difficult
Dear Kavya,
I am certain your doctor knows of what you experience when eating. There could be a thyroid nodule and it’s best to address this with the support of a medical professional!
Hi, I am havind Thyrox 50, 1 capsule early morning everyday.
My thyroid level is 2.29 for last 3 months. Do I need to stop my medicine before concieving, please suggest.
Dear Seema,
Please consult your healthcare provider before stopping any medication. He/she will guide you properly to ensure you stay healthy and your pregnancy can be healthy.
hi i am suffered from thyroid for past 1and half year and i have a 5 years girl baby. But now i cannot get pregnant why what is the reason .
Dear Nivetha,
A poorly functioning thyroid could be the reason! Have you worked with your doctor to try to regulate thyroid function?
I have well functioning thyroid with 5.5 cm benign goiter in the left side and small nodule in the right side. The doctor advised to remove the thyroid.is it better to get pregnant first or is it risky that it might become malignant during pregnancy.
Dear Hiba,
This is a much better conversation to have with your doctor. I’m sorry this is beyond my area of expertise.
Hiya I removed majority of thyroid tissue. Wish I hadn’t. Nodules are a sign of poison in glands from my experience. Lugosi iodine great for thyroids a must try. Ensure teeth in good condition. I had a broken amalgam filling. Also I was allergic to seafood. It’s good to find a natropath to help you uncover underlying cause. I think hair analysis tests are excellent best of luck 🍒🍒🍒🍒🍒
It was good to find this article, thank you for your information.
My THS level was 3.28 before and I got miscarriage 3 weeks ago.. Since then, I’m talking 75 tablet a day everyday then now my level came down to 0.83. Is it too low for pregnancy? Also do you think I should change the dose of the tablet? I would appreciate if you could give me some advise. Thanks a lot.
Hello Yuka!
I am sorry for your loss!
We understand that experts consider the normal range of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels between 0.3 to 3.0 mIU/L. You will want to be certain to talk with your doctor about changing the dose of the tablet you are taking if it is a prescription medication.
Perhaps as important right now is to focus on healing and naturally preparing for pregnancy again. I think you will appreciate our guide 5 Steps To Decreasing the Chance of Recurrent Miscarriages.
Take care!
Thanks for sharing..
im newly married, my husband has thyroid problem will it cause any problem in getting a baby please advice.
Dear Madhu,
This would be a great conversation to have with your doctor. He/she is best able to help you know if his thyroid health is impacting his fertility health and how this may impact pregnancy or your future children.
My best to you!
I’ve been recently trying to conceive but recently found out I had thyroid problems is it still safe to try to conceive?
Dear Kelsey,
This may depend on they thyroid problem. We do feel it best to work to help the body return to health when thyroid problems are a concern and you wish to try to conceive.
My tsh is 3,19 is that too much for pregnancy?
Dear Sandra,
It will be best to ask this of your doctor. What we share in our guide Every Woman’s Guide to Hypothyroidism and Fertility about Understanding TSH Levels to Diagnose Hypothyroidism is this:
“Today experts consider 0.3 to 3.0 mIU/L the normal range for TSH levels to fall (14). Anything above 3.0 is considered hypothyroid. Some endocrinologists believe that a percentage of women may find it difficult to get pregnant — or maintain a pregnancy — at a TSH level above 2.0 mIU/L, which may indicated poor thyroid function. Some studies indicate that TSH levels should be below 2.5 mIU/L prior to conception, while other studies suggest it should be at or below 1.2 mIU/L (4).”
I hope this information is helpful!
Good morning,
I am a 31 year old women and my husband and I have been trying to conceive for about a year and a half now. About a year ago I did get diagnosed with hypot. My TSH levels have been normal ever since and we are now working with a fertility doctor. When we did our consultation blood work she ordered thyroid antibodies and the results have concerned me. She does not seem worried? These are my numbers…. what are your thoughts?
Thyroglobulin Antibody 4.6 IU/mL
THYROID PEROXIDASE A 5685 Units/mL
Dear Lauren,
I am not a medical doctor and am not able to comment on test results. I am sorry you are concerned and do talk to your doctor about your concerns!
What I can share is the importance of focusing on nutrition and thyroid health with hypothyroidism. Consider the information we share in our guide Every Woman’s Guide to Hypothyroidism and Fertility.
Best wishes!
Hello,
I know this might be a bit old, but it helped me a lot after reading. One thing I wanted to ask was, do you have an recommendation for a good diet and exercise for HypoT? I have been struggling with TTC and it hasn’t happened yet but, I think I did MC in November of last year. I am 26, weigh now 216 pounds and taking 150mg of Lyvothyroxen (sorry forgot hot to spell it lol). I do have any problems with my fertility except that I have Thyroid problem. Everyone is telling me if I lose at least 10 pounds that I will conceive and I am starting to believe that to be true. I don’t want to take any diet pills. I take prenatal and my husband takes a one a day men. Thank you for any advice.
Dear LoryLa,
I am so thankful this article helped you.
We do have a guide for women with hypothyroidism. It is Every Woman’s Guide to Hypothyroidism and Fertility and makes wonderful recommendations.
If it might be most helpful to work with a fertility herbalist one on one, perhaps a Fertility Consultation is worth considering as well.
All my best!
Dr I need your guidance. I am 24 year old, 2.5 months pregnant, having thyroid problem. I was taking 2 tablets thyroxin sodium (50 mcg) half hour before breakfast for last 6 months. Now the test results are, T4:10 pmol/l T3: 3.22 pmol/l TSH: 5.53 mlU/l My Dr advised me to take now 1 tablet but at least 3 hours before breakfast. While I was expecting that dose would be increased. So I am confused Please give me your kind advice.
Dear Sumi,
First, Congratulations!
I do have to share that I am not a medical doctor, rather an herbalist trained in complementary and alternative therapies.
Do follow your doctor’s advise! He knows your pregnancy health needs best and I am sure he would not misguide you. Your thyroid levels must warrant reducing the medication dose. This is okay! If you are concerned, it is best to seek a second medical opinion or seek the support of a naturopathic doctor near you.
All my best!
Hello! Thank you for the article. I have a healthy 17 month old baby but just yesterday was diagnosed with Graves Disease. I want to try to conceive right away – but undesrtand my levels have to return to normal. They put me on Methaimazole 20 mg to start. Of the three options I was considering using Methaimazole for a period of time, but the Dr said that could take up to 2 years. I am also debating having surgery. From my research it appears medicine may be normal for the rest of my life anyway. Any advice?
Dear Amy,
I’m sorry to hear this, but hopeful that you will move forward in health.
This is an issue best addressed with the help of a practitioner with whom you can work one on one with! It is best not to address it naturally all on your own without guidance. Consider searching for a naturopath near you to work with if you wish for a more natural approach, or working with a fertility herbalist who can help create a natural fertility program with you.
I am 33 Years Female… having a 6 years old son and since last few months having high TSH level of 6.5.. After taking medicine for one month it is under control now.. But I am continuing my medicine. Please clarify whether I am able to conceive at this stage .. while under TSH medication ..
Dear Ragini,
You will want to ask this of your doctor or pharmacist. They know the side effects of the medication and if there are any precautions to now of when trying to conceive while taking it.
Dear Doc,
I’m 43yr old women, with one son age 8, I have thyroid. On med pass 5 months now, taking a med call Euthyrox 50pg. My HB count was 7.2 last December.
I’ve been trying to get pregnant naturally for some time now, no luck so far. I been hearing a lot of people saying it’s not safe for myself and the child if I get pregnant, is it true? Is it possible my child be a down syndrome child.
Please advise!
Dear Shasi,
Thank you for reaching out to us!
While it is known that egg health begins to decline as a woman ages, being 43 with a thyroid health issue does now mean that a child will have Down’s Syndrome. Thyroid health is important preconception and in pregnancy, so your healthcare provider will very likely monitor thyroid function for you in pregnancy.
If you would like personalized support guidance on the best natural fertility program for your specific fertility health needs, please consider working one on one with our fertility herbalist through a Fertility Consultation.
Best wishes!
Your information is not fully correct.
Of note, thyroid cells are not the only cells in the body to absorb iodine. Ovaries contain large numbers of sodium/iodine transporters and compete with the thyroid gland for iodine. Breast tissue and testicular tissue require iodine, as does skin.
Of further note, there is disagreement about whether iodine deficiency or excess causes hyperthyroidism. Research supports iodide (not iodine) deficiency as a causative factor in hyperthyroidism. Iodine excess may trigger hyperthyroidism in the presence of iodide deficiency. The body does not use or process them the same way.
Iodine blocks TSH production and effect, and also blocks conversion of T4 to T3. Excess iodine/iodide lowers thyroid levels in more cases than it raises them, hence Lugol’s solution, which is that perfect iodine/iodide balance successfully treats hyperthyroidism. Iodine/iodide deficiency causes hyperthyroidism. Iodine/iodide excess causes hypothyroidism. I can provide hundreds of scholarly journal article links. This is the subject of my doctoral dissertation.
Dear ‘Lia,
Thank you for your patience in my reply. Comments left here are moderated and approved weekly. They do not automatically post.
Thank you for sharing what you know!
This article is one of our earliest articles and meant to be a general overview of the topic of thyroid health in relation to fertility health, as opposed to a detailed discussion of thyroid function. Some of the information here may be outdated as well, which we understand and have a team of herbalists working on.
Thank you for commenting and all our best to you as you complete your dissertation!
Very, very Interesting! I would like to know more about iodide deficience! I think I could probably have Hiperthyroidism.
I am a 20-yr-old girl and have had thyroid problems since I was 16. I take medicine, thyronome, on a regular basis. I am tensed about the issue of infertility. Will conception be a problem? Please guide me.
Dear Anhita,
Thyroid health is important for conception and a healthy pregnancy. Thankfully it can be impacted by medication, as well as natural therapies which this article shares.
The following article may be helpful as well Every Woman’s Guide to Hypothyroidism and Fertility.
We are happy to work with you one on one if you would like personalized guidance on a natural program to address supporting thyroid health. We offer this through a Fertility Consultation.
I am trying to have a baby, I have a hypothyroid graves disease. but haven’t been on medications for a while now due to numerous factors that contributed to me not having health insurance; which i am currently trying to obtain. If i start taking a supplement like the one listed above how long should i take it before continuing to try to conceive.
Dear Josey,
In general we suggest using our products or one of our programs for a minimum of three months although this may be different for every woman. There is no simple answer to this question.
It may be most helpful however to consider working one on one with a fertility herbalist who can guide you in the right direction, on the right holistic natural program, for your specific fertility health needs. This if offered through a Fertility Consultation.
Hello. I’ve been interested in switching to a natural thyroid medication for some time, but have had difficulty finding a doctor to prescribe it. I finally believe I’ve found a doctor that will, but now I’m wondering if it’s a bad time to look into it now that I’m pregnant. Would it be best in your opinion to wait until after I deliver to look into switching? I’m very cautious of my thyroid problem now that I’m pregnant since my dosage was upped too late my last pregnancy and sadly I miscarried (OB said it was unlikely due to my thyroid, but I always believed otherwise).
Dear Brittany,
First, Congratulations on your pregnancy!
It would be best to speak with your healthcare provider about your desire to switch and then be guided in doing so by him. Now may not be the best time to make changes given your past experience. Your doctor is best able to determine this with you given your personal need for thyroid health support.
May you have a happy and healthy pregnancy, birth and baby.
My husband has very low Thyroid. It was 230 and now after taking tablets he has gone up to 40 just in one months time. I just found out that I am pregnant, will this effect our baby?
Dear Ann,
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
It is only untreated thyroid health issues of the pregnant mother that may impact pregnancy or a developing fetus. If you have great concern, please be sure to ask your healthcare provider when you visit him.
We have a wealth of natural Pregnancy Health information here at Natural Fertility Info.com if you are interested.
All our best for a happy and healthy pregnancy!
I was diagnosted with hypothyroidism (subclinical) a month after becoming pregnant. I was put on 50mcg of levothyroxine. I never had a thyroid history until it was checked out during pregnancy. Is it possible my elevated TSH level is due to being pregnant? Is it safe to take thyroid medicine while pregnant, and not just before pregnancy?
Dear kC,
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
Our Fertility Herbalist Anna-Marija Helt wrote a wonderful article titled Every Woman’s Guide to Hypothyroidism and Fertility and in it she shared that it in fact women can develop thyroid disorders in pregnancy. I encourage you to click that link and learn more.
If it has been deemed necessary that thyroid medication in necessary in pregnancy, it is best to take it and follow your healthcare providers guidance. If you are concerned about taking the medication, please don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider about it.
If you are interested, we have a wealth of Pregnancy Health information to guide you in having a healthy pregnancy.
All my best!
If you have had your thyroid taken out and have had thyroid cancer in the past can these vitamins still help balance you out?
Thank you!
Dear Adrian,
The vitamins, minerals and herbs mentioned in this article offer a variety of overall and fertility health benefits. While they support normal thyroid health, they are not necessarily specific to the thyroid. It is best to consult your healthcare provider about taking herbs and nutritional supplements if also taking prescriptions medications.
If my husband has hypothyroidism, will/can that affect me having a miscarriage, or would miscarriage only be common if I was the one with hypothyroidism?
Dear Bethany,
A miscarriage as a result of an untreated thyroid problem, or hypothyroidism would be the result of the female’s thyroid health.
Is this a concern or fertility issue you are faced with? If so, it may also help to read Every Woman’s Guide to Hypothyroidism and Fertility.
Best wishes!
Hi there. I have been taking DIM for about 2 months with amazing results. Lately though I have been lightheaded, losing weight, constipation, night sweats, confusion and swollen thyroid glands. All blood tests say there is no thyroid issue. Could the DIM cause these symptons?
Dear Jackie,
While I have yet to hear of DIM causing any of the symptoms you listed, some of the symptoms are associated with estrogen imbalance. Consider referring to our Estrogen Fertility Guide to learn more.
Although you feel you’ve had amazing results, have you considered decreasing the dose of DIM you are taking to see if you notice any changes? It may be time to consider this. Of course if these symptoms are disrupting your lifestyle or causing concern, it would be best to stop taking DIM in the event it is contributing to what you are experiencing.
Take care!
Hi! I am a woman of 33 years of age. 3 years ago, I was diagnosed of hyperthyroidism and was treated of it after 1year. Unfortunately this year, I had a relapse for which I am responding well to treatment. My husband and I are planning to have a baby very soon, will there be any risk on me and my baby? What is the first step I need to take and how can I have a healthy pregnancy? I need your urgent response please.
Dear Lynn,
How wonderful that you are responding well to the treatment you are on. If you are wondering the risks of this treatment on you and your baby during pregnancy, you will need to ask your healthcare provider. Also, because you are following a prescribed program it will be important to ask your healthcare provider about taking any herbs and even nutritional supplements with your treatment.
So, consider the dietary and stress reduction tips made in this article as you begin to learn all of the natural ways to support thyroid health and function. You might also consider working one on one with our fertility herbalist, who can create a natural fertility program for your specific needs, through a Fertility Consultation.
Best wishes!
Hi, thank you for the information. I was wondering about the Maca and how it helps to balance. If you become balanced as a result of incorporating Maca into the diet, what do you do once your pregnant? I started taking Maca and became pregnant right away. However, I stopped taking Maca once I learned I was pregnant and then lost the pregnancy. I restarted the Maca and became pregnant again right away. Again I discontinued the Maca and then we lost our 3rd pregnancy at almost 9 weeks. We also lost our son who was stillborn at 39 weeks in Nov of 2012.
Thanks, Christa
Dear Christa,
I am very sorry you have been through all of this! I send a virtual hug!
Have you been able to learn the causes of your pregnancy losses? There have been no studies on the use of maca during pregnancy. Acute toxicity studies and cytotoxicity evaluations have shown no evidence of potential toxicity of maca in pregnancy. This being said, it is still advised that you talk to your healthcare provider about using Maca into pregnancy. Suggested use is while trying to conceive and that it be discontinued upon confirmation of pregnancy. Many learn of pregnancy within 6-10 days of conception and during this time (up until implantation) the fetus is not receiving nutrients from the mother.
In Peru Maca is a staple food like potatoes or yams are for us. It however has a much higher nutritional value than potatoes or yams. The actions of Maca are based on its high nutritional value, which nourish the entire endocrine system. In nourishing the entire endocrine system, one supports hormone balance. Maca does not contain hormones itself or have a direct action on the hormones.
While Maca use seems like a common denominator here, I wonder if there is something else going on for you that has resulted in pregnancy loss. Have you seen a reproductive endocrinologist (RE)? REs are specialists who can do extensive in-depth fertility testing and help pinpoint what may be happening for you.
Again, I am so very sorry and I wish you well as you work to find answers!
~Elizabeth
I empathize with you and your spouse. I had a similar experience, 5 miscarriages. My last one was Oct 2013. I was diagnosed with endometriosis in 1999. While attempting to regulate my thyroid naturally, I learned my progesterone was low and went on progesterone cream as well as Maca, DIM, and Iodine, but didn’t remove all exposure with xenoestrogens. I ended up with a small & large fibroids along with a cyst on my ovary & adenomyosis. I am now Working on diet changes, stress reduction, thyroid balance, etc. Definitely cover all avenues. I hope this helps.
Update 2014 – We are back! We have been away for a while and we sure have missed all of your wonderful questions and thoughts on our articles. Moving forward, one of our staff herbalists will be here to respond to comments! We look forward to connecting with our readers once again!
hi, my tsh level is 15. My menstrual cycles irregular. I m taking 100 mcg thyronorm. Please tell me my pregnancy is possible or not
hi
i have hashimotos disease but i am euthyroid i sufering from recurrent abortion , i am in stress because of this please help me
Hi,
I have thyroid as well as prolactin levels are high.. after taking medicine both are OK now. but still i am not getting conceived.. I am trying hard to get pregnant, plz suggest if I need to change any medicine.
For tyroid : thyrox 75mg per day
for prolactin: Dostinex
Thanks,
San
Hi San,
We are herbalists, not medical doctors. This would be a question to ask your doctor.
Thanks,
Dalene
Hi I have addisons desease and an under active thyroid And a low bone density. I have had these illnesses for 20 years now and take hydrocortizone, thyroxine and flourocortisone and I’m 38.I would like to try for a baby and was wondering if you have advice on specific tests I should run to determine if it is possible.?
Kind thanks
Hi Lisa,
Your doctor should be able to help you determine which tests should be run. They should also be able to help refer you to a specialist if need be.
All the best,
Dalene
Can the you experience thyroid problem at the early stages of pregnancy ie 4 weeks and how can it be treated if you find that you have it and you are already pregnant?
Hi Kesego Mpofana,
Yes that is possible. If you suspect a thyroid issue, please see your doctor right away so they can determine what may be going on and treat you appropriately.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi.I have hypothyroidism,I’m taking Levothyroxine and it is under control and my thyroid levels are ok,but I feel tired all the time and I think I have adrenal problems because i feel all the symptoms,I’d like to know if i can take adrenal strength from you or adreno boost from native remedies .or if i can take thyrofem,adrenal strength and levothyroxine at the same time.Thanks.
Hi Yeila,
I cannot comment on Adreno boost, as I know nothing about that product, please contact the manufacturer of that product. Levothyroxine is synthetic thyroxine, which typically the thyroid makes. Please review nutritional supplements that this medication may effect. There are guidelines of when to take it and what supplements to avoid, due to absorption issues. Adrenal Strength and ThyroFem may contain some vitamins and minerals that should not be taken within hours of taking this medication. ThyroFem increases iodine in the body with other supportive nutrients vital for the Thyroid to function normally on its own. It would be best to ask your doctor if it is okay to combine nutritional supplements for the adrenal glands and thyroid with medications you are taking. We are not medical doctors and have no experience with medications.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
I am taking thyroid medication, will this affect my ability to conceive?
Hi Melissa,
Talk to your doctor about any risk or side effects from your thyroid medications, that may affect your fertility. Usually from my experience, thyroid medications support thyroid function and aid in conception. If the thyroid is not functioning properly, it may impair fertility. As for side effects from thyroid medications, I am just not sure.
Best Wishes,
Dalene