Thyroid health in women is important for physical and reproductive wellness
Although thyroid disorders can affect both men and women, female patients are much more likely to have one of these conditions. The American Thyroid Association even states that about 1 in 8 women will deal with a thyroid disorder. This number shows why it is so important to understand thyroid health in women.
At Heights Obstetrics & Gynecology, we understand thyroid disorders in women. Our trained physicians offer diagnosis and treatment for these issues. They also work hard to educate patients about thyroid health.
What is the thyroid, and what does it do?
Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that is part of your endocrine system. This gland is located under the skin at the front of your neck.
Although the thyroid is small, it produces and releases hormones that control important processes in your body. Below are some of the bodily functions that your thyroid affects.
- Metabolism and digestion
- Heart rate and breathing
- Body temperature
- Brain development and mental activity
- Bone and skin health
- Fertility
Because this little gland controls so many vital processes, understanding and supporting thyroid health in women is very important.
What are common thyroid health disorders in women?
Thyroid disorders in women are common and can affect both physical health and fertility. Some thyroid issues come directly from your thyroid gland (primary thyroid disease). Others originate from your pituitary gland (secondary thyroid disease).
The following four conditions are the main types of thyroid disorders in women.
- Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. This common and treatable condition slows down metabolism when the thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones.
- Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid. This condition is less common but also treatable. It occurs when the thyroid releases more hormones than the body needs, causing the metabolism to speed up.
- Goiter is an enlarged thyroid, which affects about 5% of people in the United States.
- Thyroid cancer affects about 53,000 people in the United States every year, but treatments are available with very high success rates.
All of these conditions can affect thyroid health in women. However, the good news is that multiple successful treatments are available.
How do you treat thyroid disorders?
The treatment for thyroid disorders in women varies depending on the specific condition. If you have one of these diagnoses, our San Antonio OBGYNs may recommend one of the following treatments.
- Medications like antithyroid medications for hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone medications for hypothyroidism.
- Surgery, such as a thyroidectomy (total thyroid removal) or lobectomy (partial thyroid removal).
- Radiation therapy and chemotherapy for thyroid cancer.
Our San Antonio OBGYNs will work closely with you to select the best treatment for your unique needs. As a result, you can count on receiving a customized treatment plan for thyroid health in women.
If you have more questions about thyroid disorders in women, Heights Obstetrics & Gynecology is here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment and take control of your thyroid health.