Prevalence of Hypothyroidism in Infertile Women and Evaluation of Treatment Response for Hypothyroidism on Infertility

Abstract

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prevalence of primary infertility in India ranges from 3.5% to 16.8%. Thyroid disorders are more prevalent in females, occurring at a rate of 4–5 times higher than in males. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can significantly influence estrogen and androgen metabolism, menstrual function, and fertility. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hypothyroidism among women experiencing infertility and to assess the efficacy of hypothyroidism treatment on infertility outcomes.

Materials and Methods: 123 infertile women underwent thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) assessment. Infertile women diagnosed with clinical or subclinical hypothyroidism received thyroxine doses ranging from 25 to 150 μg.

Results: Among the 123 infertile women studied, 53.65% exhibited hypothyroidism (TSH > 4.6 μIU/ml). Following thyroxine treatment, 34% of subclinical hypothyroid women achieved conception within a period ranging from 6 weeks to 2 years. The average time to conception was 14.65 ± 4.38 months.

Conclusion: In the evaluation of infertility, assessing thyroid function is crucial. Even in cases where TSH levels are within the normal range but thyroid antibodies are detected, treatment with levothyroxine is recommended.