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01 April 2025

Is having a thyroid condition really a cause of infertility?


01 April 2025
Updates
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Does having a thyroid condition really cause infertility?

Subclinical Hypothyroidism (Low thyroid hormone levels without symptoms)

Subclinical Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland's function begins to decline, but without noticeable symptoms. This is detected through blood tests, where the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) remain normal, but the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland is higher than normal. People with this condition do not show symptoms, and the thyroid hormone levels (Free T3 and Free T4) are normal, but the TSH level is elevated. The normal reference range for TSH is generally below 2.5 mIU/L. However, during pregnancy, normal TSH levels vary depending on the trimester: in the first trimester, it should be below 2.5 mIU/L; in the second trimester, below 3 mIU/L; and in the third trimester, below 3.5 mIU/L.

Subclinical hypothyroidism and infertility.

There is no clear evidence linking subclinical hypothyroidism with infertility, but in patients with this condition, it is important to monitor during pregnancy. This is because there is a possibility that the condition may change and become more severe over time.

Summary

Pregnancy in women with thyroid problems: In cases of hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), treatment typically involves thyroid hormone replacement. Those with low thyroid function from the start may experience issues with ovulation, leading to infertility. Both low and high thyroid levels can result in infertility. It is important to assess the current treatment stage if thyroid levels are high, and whether the condition is under control. With consistent treatment and regular medication, thyroid levels can stabilize, allowing for normal ovulation and increasing the chances of pregnancy. Once pregnancy is achieved, it is essential to receive care and monitoring from an obstetrician and endocrinologist specializing in thyroid disorders to maintain normal thyroid hormone levels. This will help prevent complications such as miscarriage, low birth weight, preeclampsia, preterm labor, and the risk of the baby having thyroid issues (either low or high thyroid).

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI