Thyroid and Periods: Is There a Connection?
Expert Women's Health Care by Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde, Hera Clinic, Punawale, PCMC Pune
If you are facing irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or fertility challenges, your thyroid health could be playing a role.
The thyroid gland and the menstrual cycle are more closely connected than most women realize. In this blog, Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde, an expert gynecologist at Hera Clinic, Punawale, explains the link between thyroid disorders and periods — and how to manage it effectively.
What Is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck. It produces hormones like T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which regulate your body’s metabolism, energy levels, and even your menstrual health.
How Does the Thyroid Affect Your Periods?
Your menstrual cycle depends on a delicate balance of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones. When your thyroid isn't functioning properly, it can disrupt this hormonal balance, leading to:
- Irregular periods (too frequent or too few)
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Very light periods (hypomenorrhea)
- Missed periods (amenorrhea)
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Fertility issues
Common Thyroid Conditions That Affect Menstrual Cycle
1. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Decreased production of thyroid hormones
- Symptoms: fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin
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Effects on Periods:
- Heavy bleeding
- Longer periods
- Irregular cycles
- Infertility issues
2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Excess production of thyroid hormones
- Symptoms: weight loss, heat intolerance, anxiety, rapid heartbeat
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Effects on Periods:
- Light bleeding
- Shorter cycles
- Missed periods
Symptoms That May Indicate a Thyroid Problem
- Sudden change in your period pattern
- Extremely heavy or very scanty periods
- Feeling unusually tired
- Unexplained weight changes
- Hair thinning or hair loss
- Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
- Difficulty conceiving
How to Diagnose Thyroid-Related Period Problems
At Hera Clinic, Punawale, we recommend:
- Thyroid Function Test (TFT): Blood test to check TSH, T3, and T4 levels
- Ultrasound of Thyroid (if needed)
- Hormonal Profile: To assess reproductive hormones
- Menstrual Cycle Charting: To track abnormalities
Treatment for Thyroid-Related Menstrual Issues
Treatment depends on whether you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism:
- Hypothyroidism: Treated with thyroid hormone replacement (Levothyroxine)
- Hyperthyroidism: Managed with medications to reduce thyroid hormone production
Once thyroid levels are stabilized:
- Periods usually become regular
- Fertility improves
- Overall reproductive health enhances
Why Choose Hera Clinic, Punawale for Women's Hormonal Health?
- Expert gynecological consultation by Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde
- Specialized care for thyroid, PCOS, and menstrual disorders
- Advanced diagnostic services under one roof
- Compassionate and personalized approach
📍 Serving in Punawale near Wakad, Hinjewadi, Ravet, Tathawade, Baner, and nearby areas.
📞 Book Your Consultation Today
Don’t ignore unexplained changes in your periods — it could be your thyroid signaling for help!
👉 Website: www.heraclinics.in
👉 Address: Shop No. 8, Ground Floor, Infinity Cube, D-Wing 44/1/2, Malwadi, Punawale, PCMC, Pune 411033