Women with untreated thyroid dysfunction are more at risk for having period problems too.

The balance between thyroid hormones and female reproductive hormones is closely linked and an imbalance in either one can throw the other out of balance too.

For example, hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) elevates prolactin (which in turn suppresses ovulation). An underactive thyroid also increases your risk of PCOS by impairing insulin sensitivity. Sufficient thyroid hormone is also needed for cellular energy in order for the ovaries to develop healthy eggs. Hypothyroidism can also influence oestrogen and progesterone levels, and both need to be at correct levels in order to regulate patterns of ovulation and menstruation.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Dry skin

Hair loss

Weight gain

Fatigue

Mood disorders, depression

Elevated cholesterol

Brain fog

Cold sensitivity

If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, but also have irregular menstrual cycles, heavy or prolonged bleeding, or missed periods, then it is best to get your thyroid levels checked.

Speak to your naturopath to arrange a blood test. Ensure all thyroid hormones are checked, but be aware that it’s really important to also check for thyroid antibodies, even when TSH levels are normal.

Treatment

If you have irregular periods, and a blood test shows you have an underactive thyroid then we treat the thyroid as the underlying cause. There are ways you can support your thyroid naturally.

If the hypothyroidism is caused by autoimmunity, then an autoimmune protocol should be adhered to. If caused by nutritional deficiencies, then they must be restored.

We can treat the thyroid with herbal medicine, such as Withania, Bladderwrack, or Coleus for hypothyroidism, and Bugleweed, Motherwort, and Bupleurum for hyperthyroidism.

Ensure a dairy free and gluten free diet to reduce thyroid autoimmunity.

We can treat an underactive thyroid with nutritional medicine, such as zinc, selenium, iodine, vitamin d, and magnesium.

And as always, we optimise healthy gut flora – as the gut is the source of all good health.

Testing

Book a time with your naturopath, who will arrange an extensive thyroid test panel, including antibodies, and thyroid nutritional cofactors.

Yvette is a qualified Melbourne-based Naturopath and Nutritionist, MINDD Practitioner, member of the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia, and Complementary Medicine Association. Yvette specialises in the treatment of conditions commonly affecting women and children, with a key interest in children’s digestive and neurological conditions, as well as women’s hormonal concerns, digestive issues, fatigue, anxiety, and skin concerns. Yvette consults in South Yarra, Melbourne, as well as Australia-wide via skype/zoom/phone. Book here.

 

The Naturopathic Co. Melbourne Naturopath 2020

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