Thyroid disorders are conditions in which the thyroid gland makes too much or too little thyroid hormone. The most common are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and both can affect periods, fertility and pregnancy.
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that controls how fast the body uses energy. Hypothyroidism means an underactive thyroid, and hyperthyroidism means an overactive one. Thyroid problems are much more common in women than in men, and they often start after pregnancy or around menopause.
An underactive thyroid can cause tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold, low mood and heavy or irregular periods. An overactive thyroid can cause anxiety, weight loss, a fast heartbeat, feeling hot and light or missing periods, sometimes leading to amenorrhea. Symptoms often develop slowly and are easy to mistake for stress.
Thyroid hormones help regulate ovulation, so an untreated thyroid disorder can make it harder to get pregnant. In pregnancy, thyroid levels need careful monitoring. A simple blood test can check thyroid function, and a GP will advise on treatment.
Fatigue, poor concentration and sensitivity to heat or cold can make some workdays harder, especially before treatment settles. Time off for blood tests, control over room temperature and flexible hours can help.
Sources: NHS, NHS, MedlinePlus.
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