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Infertility and thyroid disorders
Krinos M Trokoudes1, Nicos Skordis, Michalis K Picolos
1Pedieos IVF Center, Cyprus. trokoudes@spidernet.com.cy
Current Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology
|June 24, 2006
Summary
Thyroid dysfunction significantly impacts fertility and pregnancy outcomes in both men and women. Early detection and management of thyroid conditions are crucial for improving reproductive health and preventing infertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Endocrinology
- Thyroidology
Background:
- Thyroid dysfunction is prevalent and affects reproductive health.
- It impacts male and female gonads, interfering with reproductive physiology.
- Thyroid disorders reduce pregnancy likelihood and adversely affect outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on thyroid dysfunction's contribution to infertility.
- To highlight the impact of thyroid disorders on reproductive outcomes.
- To emphasize the relevance of thyroid status in reproductive dysfunction algorithms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on thyroid dysfunction and reproduction.
- Analysis of the effects of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and autoimmunity on fertility.
- Examination of treatment outcomes and impact of radioactive iodine therapy.
Main Results:
- Hypothyroidism can cause menstrual irregularities but is treatable; subclinical forms may impair ovulation and pregnancy.
- Thyroid autoimmunity increases miscarriage risk, unaffected by thyroxine treatment.
- Thyrotoxicosis affects sperm motility reversibly; radioactive iodine therapy has minimal long-term effects on fertility.
Conclusions:
- Assessing thyroid status in infertile couples is essential due to frequent, significant, and often reversible effects.
- Thyroid disorders play a crucial role in infertility.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the role of thyroid disorders in infertility.