Table of Contents

What are the main types of thyroid disorders in women?
What are common symptoms of thyroid disorders in women?
Why are women more prone to thyroid disorders?
How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?
What are the treatment options for thyroid disorders in women?

What are the main types of thyroid disorders in women?

The most common thyroid disorders include:

Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slowdown in bodily functions.

Hyperthyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, accelerating bodily functions.

Goiter: An enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can occur in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid nodules: Lumps in the thyroid gland that are usually benign but can sometimes be cancerous.

Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid, which can cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism phases.

What are common symptoms of thyroid disorders in women?

Symptoms can vary depending on whether the thyroid is underactive or overactive but may include:

Hypothyroidism: Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, and menstrual irregularities.

Hyperthyroidism: Weight loss, heat intolerance, increased appetite, sweating, tremors, anxiety, and irregular menstrual cycles.

Why are women more prone to thyroid disorders?

Women are more susceptible to thyroid disorders due to a combination of hormonal changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, and autoimmune conditions, which are more common in women.

How are thyroid disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, a review of symptoms, and blood tests to measure levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).‍

What are the treatment options for thyroid disorders in women?

Treatment depends on the type of thyroid disorder. We will discuss hypothyroidism here because many women that have a thyroid disorder struggle specifically with hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is usually treated with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine) to normalize hormone levels. In the case where the immune system is targeting the thyroid gland, this treatment option is not effective. Even in the case of hypothyroidism, levothyroxine is not our treatment option because it does not help the underlying issue.

Instead of managing just the symptoms of thyroid conditions, Epiphany Women’s Health looks to treat the underlying issue: hormone imbalance. So, we treat it with hormone replacement. 

Let’s discuss in more detail our treatment option that we believe will help you: bioidentical (human identical) hormone replacement therapy.

Next steps...

We are conveniently located in Peoria, IL and Fairhope, AL. We are here to get you back on top of your game and living your best life.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward treating your thyroid condition, please book an appointment online.