Fertility and Thyroid Supplements: What Works and What Doesn’t
Fertility issues can be a source of frustration and heartache for many couples trying to conceive. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the role of thyroid health in fertility, with more and more women turning to thyroid supplements to improve their chances of getting pregnant. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which supplements are effective and which are just a waste of money. In this blog post, we will explore the link between fertility and thyroid health, and discuss the thyroid supplements that have been shown to work, as well as those that have little to no evidence supporting their use.
Understanding the Relationship between Fertility and Thyroid Health
The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in the body’s hormonal balance and function. It produces two hormones, namely thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism and energy levels. These hormones also have a significant impact on the reproductive system, including menstrual cycles, ovulation, and fertility. Therefore, any imbalance or dysfunction in the thyroid gland can have a direct effect on a woman’s ability to conceive.
Thyroid Disorders and Fertility
Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), are known to affect fertility in women. Hypothyroidism can cause irregular menstrual cycles, anovulation (lack of ovulation), and luteal phase defects (shortened second half of the menstrual cycle), all of which can make it difficult for a woman to conceive. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism can lead to an increased risk of miscarriage and preterm birth.
Thyroid Supplements for Fertility: What Works
Many women with thyroid disorders turn to supplements to improve their fertility and increase their chances of conceiving. The following are some of the most commonly used thyroid supplements for fertility, backed by scientific evidence.
1. Selenium
Selenium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid health. It is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the thyroid gland from damage caused by oxidative stress. Studies have shown that selenium supplementation can improve thyroid function, reduce inflammation, and increase fertility in women with thyroid disorders.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is another vital nutrient for thyroid health. It has been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which is a common cause of hypothyroidism. Additionally, vitamin D deficiency has also been associated with reduced fertility and an increased risk of pregnancy complications. Supplementation with vitamin D has been shown to improve thyroid function and increase fertility in women undergoing assisted reproductive techniques.
3. Zinc
Fertility and Thyroid Supplements: What Works and What Doesn't
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in the production of thyroid hormones. Studies have shown that women with thyroid disorders are more likely to have low levels of zinc, which can contribute to fertility issues. Supplementation with zinc has been found to improve thyroid function and increase fertility in women with thyroid disorders.
4. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound found in every cell of the body, where it plays a vital role in energy production. It is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation can improve thyroid function, reduce inflammation, and increase fertility in women with thyroid disorders.
Thyroid Supplements for Fertility: What Doesn’t Work
While the above supplements have been shown to have positive effects on fertility in women with thyroid disorders, there are also many supplements that have little to no evidence supporting their use.
1. Iodine
Iodine is an essential mineral for thyroid health as it is a building block of the thyroid hormones. However, studies have found that supplementation with iodine does not improve thyroid function or fertility in women with thyroid disorders, unless they have a severe iodine deficiency.
2. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic properties. It has been touted as a natural remedy for thyroid disorders and fertility issues. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
3. Maca
Maca is a root vegetable that has been traditionally used to enhance fertility and libido. While some animal studies have shown that maca may have a positive effect on fertility, there is no scientific evidence to support its use in humans.
The Bottom Line
Thyroid supplements can be a valuable tool for women with thyroid disorders who are trying to conceive. However, it is essential to choose supplements that have scientific evidence supporting their use. Consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement is crucial, as they can help determine the right dosage and monitor for any potential interactions.
In summary, thyroid health plays a significant role in fertility, and certain supplements have been shown to improve thyroid function and increase fertility in women with thyroid disorders. Selenium, vitamin D, zinc, and CoQ10 are among the most effective thyroid supplements for fertility, while iodine, ashwagandha, and maca have little to no evidence supporting their use. As always, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.