By Dr. Jeda Boughton, BodaHealth

It is estimated that 16% of couples have fertility problems. Thyroid imbalance can contribute to difficulty conceiving a child in several ways, such as:

1)    Menstrual Cycle

The underproduction of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism) or the overproduction of hormones (hyperthyroidism) can cause irregularities in your menstrual cycle. A cycle that is too long or too short can cause difficulty with conception.

2)    Uterine Lining

Your thyroid affects the growth of your endometrial lining. Low thyroid can decrease your body temperature and metabolism causing slow cell growth leading to early or recurring miscarriages. A balanced thyroid is important in maintaining pregnancy after conception.

3)    Ovulation

Low thyroid hormone levels can cause high prolactin, which can affect your ovulation. This may include early, late ovulation or anovulatory cycles.

Irregularity in your menstrual cycle, low libido and general fatigue are clues that your thyroid gland is not functioning properly.  Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism, but both conditions can affect fertility.

Many women with thyroid hormone imbalances find that with proper care of their thyroid, they are able to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term.

Dr. Jeda Boughton is a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncturist and Director of BodaHealth in Vancouver, B.C.