| Hypothyroidism has been proven to be a reason for | | | | twenties and late thirties, but can also occur after |
| infertility, but because it is rarely thought of in | | | | menopause. Fortunately, this can be remedied - tests |
| regards to the reproductive process, it is often | | | | can be conducted to determine the absence of |
| overlooked as a cause. | | | | either thyroxine or triiodothyronine (T4 and T3 |
| What is hypothyroidism? Simply, it means that the | | | | respectively) in the body, by your health specialist. |
| thyroid gland (located just below the Adam's apple) | | | | Hypothyroidism can either be mild or severe. In mild |
| does not produce enough of the thyroxine and | | | | cases, tests will show that the level of thyroid |
| triiodothyronine hormones. Insufficient production of | | | | hormones is low compared to the normal amount. |
| these hormones prevents the body from carrying | | | | But when severe, thyroid hormone production may |
| out vital reproductive functions - one of which is | | | | literally cease. |
| ensuring egg (ova) production. Therefore, the | | | | So how do you know whether or not you have |
| reduced amount of thyroid hormones can cause | | | | hypothyroidism? Spotting it is complicated by the fact |
| infertility in a female. | | | | that there are many symptoms attributed to it which |
| This is because prolactin, (a hormone influencing the | | | | are also commonly symptomatic of other ailments. |
| production of breast milk) is created in larger | | | | Some of these include: excessive weight gain, |
| quantities than normal. Excessive milk production | | | | increased heart rate, extreme mood swings, dry skin, |
| hinders ovulation because the process is very similar | | | | brittle, flaky nails, and general weakness or fatigue. |
| to pregnancy, so the brain gets the signal that the | | | | (This is not the total list.) As soon as you notice one |
| body is not ready for another ovulation. | | | | or more of these complaints, do yourself a favor: |
| Hypothyroidism is unfortunately a common | | | | See a chiropractor or nutritional specialist as soon as |
| phenomenon among women of reproductive age. It | | | | possible. Hypothyroidism can be easily corrected with |
| is more apparent in women between their early | | | | early detection. |