Difficulty in Conceiving With Mild Underactive Thyroid
Q: I am 40, weigh 204 and have been TTC for almost 2 years. Currently I’m on letrozole and metformin. My TSH is 1.5. I had my first child at age 37. I started synthroid because my TSH level was within normal range but near the high end. I was trying to lose weight. It took 3 months (was on synthroid for 2 months) to become pregnant the first time. I have been trying to lose weight for almost 2 years with little success. Is it possible or likely that with a 1.5 TSH I could still have a thyroid issue that is causing infertility and weight gain. Other things like hair loss, cold hands, feet and occasional chills in a normal temperature room- this all occurred before the medications.
Reply:
Well yes, the thyroid issue still can not be ruled out. Though the normal standard levels of TSH are somewhere between 0.5 to 1.5 mIU/l, it has been seen that patients on the higher side of this range (above 0.9) often exhibit a hypothyroid life.
A more desirable level of TSH could be below 0.9mIU/l.
Furthermore, the age factor could be playing a role on the infertility issue. Women reaching 40 often find it difficult to conceive.
You may consult your gynecologist and go for the follicular studies. This would guide you and help you to plan your conception.
Take Care,
Buddy M.D.
