The Thyroid Menopause Connection May Be the Culprit Behind Discomfort

Women in their late 30s and 40s who experience insomnia, mood swings, or a decrease in sex drive may conclude they are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause. The onset of premenopause may cause these and a variety of other symptoms such as hot flashes, weight gain, and fatigue. But could there be another culprit behind the discomfort working either independently or in conjunction with the onset of menopause?

Any of these symptoms and a host of others could be attributable to a disturbance in the function of the thyroid, menopause onset, or both. It is now thought that many women who are treated for premenopausal symptoms are in fact experiencing the effects of undiagnosed hypothyroidism, as well.

Is it Your Thyroid, Menopause, or Both?

Distinguishing between malfunctioning thyroid and menopause symptoms can be so challenging since both may occur at about the same time. Premenopause may begin affecting women around age 35 and continue until actual menopause occurs at age 45 -50 or even later.
Hypothyroidism affects approximately 1 out of every 8 women age 35 – 65, and is even more common after age 65. While most women expect to experience side effects as their bodies prepare for menopause, few are aware how likely they are to develop hypothyroidism.

The thyroid menopause connection is complex. It actually stems from close interactions between hormones the thyroid produces and the reproductive organs. Because hormones produced by the thyroid regulate metabolism, they directly influence the activity of reproductive glands. In addition, estrogen and progesterone directly affect thyroid uptake receptor sites by blocking or allowing them to function. Not only do the symptoms of an imbalance of thyroid hormones mirror many of those associated with fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone, the two conditions may be involved in a casual relationship. Synthetic hormones used during HRT interact with and affect the functioning of the thyroid, as well.

What About Treatment?

A simple blood test can identify an underactive thyroid, so correct diagnosis of the condition is rarely a difficult manner once it is suspected. The question often becomes whether or not to treat it. Some doctors feel that research does not support pursuing treatment for hypothyroidism unless distressing symptoms or ill health are clearly being experienced. Others feel that hypothyroidism can increase the risks of heart and circulatory disease and that treatment is definitely warranted, even in sub-clinical or a-symptomatic cases.

In some cases, the nature of the symptoms may influence your doctor’s decision whether or not to pursue treatment. For example, an unhealthy weight gain or extreme fatigue may warrant the pursuit of treatment. If you are diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and menopause is around the corner, be prepared to discuss the possibilities for dealing with symptoms of both with your doctor. When it comes to improving quality of life and overall health, no option should be overlooked or left unexplored.