Human Reproductive Health in Relation to Thyroid Alterations

Abstract

Background: Thyroid alterations have adverse effects on other health systems in the body, and reproductive system is one of the most affected organs. Here, we perform a comprehensive analysis on the effects of different thyroid abnormalities on sexual and reproductive-related hormones in both men and women in different age groups. Method: A comprehensive analysis was performed on 15,043 subjects within the reproductive age (15-49 years). They were tested for thyroid markers (TSH, FT4, anti-TPO, anti-Tg) and 13 reproductive hormones in Vibrant America Clinical Laboratory between March 2016 to July 2018. The alterations of each reproductive hormone in hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, anti-TPO+ anti-Tg+ groups were evaluated. Results: A total of 10,626 women was tested. Women with hypothyroidism had elevated cortisol and low SHBG and DHEA-S. Women with hyperthyroidism showed elevated total testosterone and SHBG. Women seropositive for anti-TPO had elevated total testosterone and low cortisol. Women seropositive for anti-Tg had low parathyroid hormones. Similarly, a total of 4417 men was tested. Men with hypothyroidism had low IGF-I. Similarly, men with hyperthyroidism had low DHEA-S, but elevated estradiol, FSH, LH and prolactin. Men seropositive for anti-TPO had elevated SHBG and low progesterone. Men seropositive for anti-Tg had elevated progesterone. The reproductive and related hormone levels of age group 36-49 showed the most variations. Conclusion: Our results clearly show that individuals with different thyroid alterations have different effects on reproductive health, especially in the age group 36-49. Hence, routine testing and follow-up checkups on reproductive system would be beneficial for individuals in the age group 36-49 with thyroid disorders.

Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction in Patient with Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Subclinical Hyperthyroidism

“…Conversely, subclinical hyperthyroidism, characterized by low or suppressed TSH, may also impact sexual well-being. 9,10 The exploration of sexual dysfunction in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism is grounded in the intricate relationship between thyroid function and reproductive health. Thyroid hormones, essential regulators of metabolism and energy, also influence the endocrine system, impacting sexual function.…”