Can uncontrolled hypothyroidism cause irregular periods?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 29-year-old female and have been on Thyroxin 75 mcg for hypothyroidism for six months. My recent TSH is 7.9 (high), T3 85, and T4 4.5. I still feel tired, gaining weight, and my hair fall is worsening.

My doctor asked me to increase the dose, but I am confused if the persistent symptoms mean something else is wrong, like Hashimoto’s. Anti-TPO antibodies are slightly high (63 IU/ml). I am looking for your opinions on-

Should I request an ultrasound of the thyroid gland?
Also, can uncontrolled hypothyroidism cause irregular periods?

My Hb levels are okay at 12.9. I want to know if changing my diet will help manage the condition better.

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I would like to first assure you that you do not have to be worried too much about your symptoms. You are having clinical hypothyroidism, and that is easily manageable.

Yes, you will experience hair fall issues, menstrual irregularities, sleep disturbances, and weight gain-like symptoms, but once your serum TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone).

When levels come under control, your symptoms will get better. You have to be very cautious about your diet and exercise.

Have a proper sleep schedule, eat a healthy, nutritious diet, exercise daily, and take enough vitamin D. Also, you need to avoid a few food items in your diet, like-

Alcohol.
Peanuts.
Cauliflower.
Broccoli.
Radish.
Tofu.
High-fat foods.

These substances are goitrogenic and may further interfere with the working of Levothyroxine medicines that you are taking.

The best time to take Levothyroxine is 30 minutes before breakfast at the same time daily. Try to do stress management. And yes, you will have to increase the dose from 75 mcg (microgram) to 100 mcg.

Get your TSH levels checked after two months and follow up with reports. I also advise you to get your serum vitamin D3 levels checked.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.