Thyroid hormones play a key role in regular ovulation.
When levels become abnormal — either too low (hypothyroidism) or too high (hyperthyroidism) — ovulation becomes irregular or stops completely, resulting in:

• Missed periods

• Very irregular cycles

• Difficulty conceiving

Thyroid hormone receptors are also present in the endometrium, and these hormones appear to play a role in implantation, which is crucial for IVF success. Normalising thyroid levels is therefore an essential part of preparing for an IVF cycle.

How Thyroid Disorders Affect Fertility in Men

Thyroid hormones help regulate sperm production and maturation.
When thyroid levels are unstable, men may experience:

• Low sperm count

• Poor sperm motility

• Reduced libido

• Difficulty maintaining erections

These issues can significantly lower the chances of natural conception.

Causes of Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland can malfunction for many reasons, including:

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

• Grave’s disease

• Certain medications (e.g., lithium)

• Excess iodine exposure

• Infection or inflammation of the thyroid

Sometimes, no single cause is identified.

Symptoms to Watch For

Hypothyroidism (Low Thyroid Hormones)

• Excessive sleep

• Lethargy, low energy

• Constipation

• Thick, coarse skin

• Weight gain

• Reduced alertness

• Infertility

Hyperthyroidism (High Thyroid Hormones)

• Insomnia

• Tremors

• Weight loss

• Palpitations

• Sweaty or thin skin

• Brittle hair

• Rapid bowel movements

• Fast pulse rate

• Infertility

Both conditions cause irregular menstrual cycles in women and fertility issues in both men and women.

Diagnosis: How We Check Thyroid Status

Diagnosis is simple. A thyroid profile — FT3, FT4, and TSH — is done at a reliable laboratory. Sometimes, an ultrasound of the thyroid gland is advised. A normal TSH is generally between 0.5 and 4.0, though this may vary slightly by lab. It’s also common to see PCOS and thyroid disorders occur together. Both can be treated simultaneously to restore fertility.

If thyroid issues are affecting your fertility, timely treatment can make a profound difference. At Janini IVF, Delhi, our team helps diagnose, treat, and manage thyroid-related infertility with personalised care and advanced reproductive support. Book your consultation today at +919717996655 / +919773926655 or visit www.janiniivf.com.

FAQs: Thyroid and Infertility — Janini IVF, Delhi

1. Can thyroid problems cause infertility?
Yes. Both hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormones) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormones) can disrupt ovulation in women and affect sperm production in men, leading to infertility.

2. How do thyroid disorders affect ovulation?
Thyroid hormones regulate normal ovulation. When hormone levels are too low or too high, ovulation becomes irregular or may stop, making it difficult to conceive.

3. Can thyroid issues affect implantation or IVF success?
Yes. Thyroid hormone receptors are present in the endometrium, and normal hormone levels help support implantation. Stabilising thyroid function is important before starting an IVF cycle.

4. How does thyroid disease affect male fertility?
In men, thyroid hormones influence sperm production and maturation. Abnormal levels can cause low sperm count, poor motility, reduced libido, and difficulty maintaining erections.

5. What symptoms should I look for?
Hypothyroidism: lethargy, constipation, thick skin, weight gain, excessive sleepiness, and infertility.
Hyperthyroidism: tremors, weight loss, palpitations, sweating, diarrhoea, rapid pulse, irritability, and infertility.
Both conditions can cause irregular menstrual cycles