How Does an Enlarged Thyroid Affect Fertility?

While the thyroid is rarely thought of as being involved in conception, it produces hormones that regulate practically every part of the body. Abnormal hormone production can have a major effect on ovulation and the ability to become pregnant.

Thyroid Disorders

• An enlarged thyroid can be a sign of either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the body produces too few hormones; hyperthyroidism occurs when too many hormones are made. Both conditions can cause infertility.

Ovulation

• A thyroid condition usually affects fertility by preventing ovulation. Often, this occurs because cysts form on the ovaries or because the body produces prolactin, a hormone usually present during pregnancy and childbirth, according to Columbia University Medical Center.

Pregnancy

• Thyroid abnormalities can also increase the risk for miscarriages, fetal death and premature labor, according to Columbia University and Thyroid-Info.com.

Considerations

• Thyroid problems sometimes cause menstruation to stop but many women continue to menstruate, not knowing they're never ovulating. Even if you're having regular periods you need to see a doctor if your thyroid is noticeably swollen.

Treatment

• An enlarged thyroid and its underlying cause can usually be treated with either medication or surgery to regulate your hormones and help you conceive.