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Thyroid and ovarian function in infertile women.
I Gerhard1, T Becker, W Eggert-Kruse
1Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology, University Women's Clinic, Heidelberg, FRG.
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Thyroid function significantly impacts fertility. The TRH-test is crucial for diagnosing thyroid issues in infertile women, improving pregnancy rates and reducing complications.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Thyroid dysfunction is common in infertile women.
- Subtle thyroid abnormalities can affect the pituitary-ovarian axis.
- Early detection and management are key for fertility outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between thyroid function and the pituitary-ovarian axis in infertile women.
- To determine the diagnostic utility of TRH-tests in this population.
- To identify thyroid parameters predictive of pregnancy success and complications.
Main Methods:
- 185 infertile women underwent TRH-tests and routine hormonal assessments.
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (T4), and thyroid antibodies were measured.
- Women were categorized into euthyroid, latent hyperthyroid, and preclinical hypothyroid groups.
Main Results:
- Thyroid function parameters correlated with pituitary-ovarian axis markers.
- Higher pregnancy and delivery rates were observed in women with normal TSH, high T4, and low microsomal antibodies (Mab).
- Elevated TSH and normal T4 were associated with increased abortion and tubal pregnancies.
Conclusions:
- The TRH-test is recommended for infertility work-up.
- Routine thyroid antibody testing may not be necessary in all infertile women.
- Optimizing thyroid function can improve fertility outcomes.