Hypothyroidism and women's health

Hypothyroidism affects 4% to 10% of women, increasing with age. Symptoms, which are often nonspecific and subtle, can include: lethargy, mild weight gain, edema, cold intolerance, constipation, mental impairment, dry skin, depression, irregular menses, hoarseness, myalgias, hyperlipidemia, and bradycardia. TSH determination is usually warranted when some of these are present. Confirmation of diagnosis is based on laboratory tests, not symptoms. With Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the most common cause, the thyroid is usually firm and irregular to palpation. Screening is recommended by the American Thyroid Association, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and ACOG. Studies indicate that even slight hypothyroidism is associated with increased miscarriage, late fetal demise and lower IQ of offspring. Many believe all women intending conception or pregnancy should be screened. Most patients with even slightly elevated TSH should be treated, though controversy remains. Hypothyroidism is usually permanent, and treatment is life-long; postpartum thyroiditis may be transient. Levothyroxine is the standard treatment. Because of variable bioavailability of some levothyroxine preparations, designation of a specific high-quality brand is appropriate; TSH should be monitored to titrate the dose. The third-generation super-sensitive TSH is the most accurate test for both hypo- and hyperthyroidism. Because estrogen increases levels of thyroid binding globulin, women who are on HRT or OCs, or are pregnant, usually have total T4 levels above the reference range.