Although PCOS andhypothyroidism(low thyroid function) PCOS are very different, they share many features.
This article takes a close look at five important things people with PCOS should know about hypothyroidism.
Hashimoto’s is anautoimmune disorderin which the body attacks and damages thethyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.
torwai / Getty Images
Thyroid hormones also help control your heart rate and influence your menstrual cycle and fertility.
Weight gain is a central feature for many women with PCOS.
Hypothyroidism can also complicate PCOS, causing symptoms not typically seen with the disorder.
In addition to worsening the symptoms of PCOS, hypothyroidism can cause symptoms not commonly seen with PCOS.
Abnormally high TSH levels suggest that you may be hypothyroid.
This is because the pituitary is working overtime in an effort to stimulate an underactive thyroid gland.
Even so, a high TSH on its own does not mean you have hypothyroidism.
Iodine Plays a Big Role
The thyroid must haveiodineto make thyroid hormones.
Keeping T3 and T4 production in balance requires the right amount of iodine.
Too little or too much can cause or worsen hypothyroidism.
By better managing hypothyroidism, any effect it may have on PCOS can be minimized.
Summary
Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) is common in women with PCOS.
This includes an autoimmune form of the disease called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Hypothyroidism needs to be properly managed to minimize its impact on PCOS.
This includes the proper dietary intake of iodine.
2015;19(1):25-29. doi:10.4103/2230-8210.146860
American Thyroid Association.Hypothyroidism: A booklet for patients and their families.
2010;93(7):2291-4. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.01.056
