Thyroid and Irregular Periods

Periods and everything related to menstruation can be inconvenient enough for hard-working women, but even more so when the periods don’t act like they’re supposed to. Irregular periods, although commonly associated with menopause, are sometimes governed by problems with the thyroid gland. Below, please find more detailed information about the thyroid and irregular periods.

About the Thyroid and Irregular Periods

The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine glands in the human body. It is located in the neck and controls a slew of bodily functions, such as energy use, protein productions, and interactions between hormones. The thyroid gland, in turn, is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland and is linked to a few relatively common problems, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism – overactive and underactive thyroid respectively.

When it comes to irregular periods, the thyroid gland is often a culprit.

Links between the Thyroid and Irregular Periods

As mentioned above, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are two fairly common conditions of the thyroid gland. These two conditions may both cause different types of irregularities in periods.

Hypothyroidism
The underactive thyroid has been linked to the following types of irregular periods:

• Early menstruation (precocious puberty) – having periods before the age of 10 is considered to be early and doctors should check to see if the child has hypothyroidism

• Heavy periods (menorrhagia) – experiencing periods that are heavier than usual could also be a sign of hypothyroidism

• Frequent or longer periods – if a woman notices a significant shortening of her cycle or periods that last longer than her average duration, she may be suffering from hypothyroidism

Hyperthyroidism
The overactive thyroid has been linked to the following types of irregular periods:

• Late menstruation (delayed puberty) – teenagers who don’t experience their first period by about age 15 could be experiencing an overactive thyroid

• Infrequent or absent periods – intervals between periods that are exceptionally long or a complete absence of one month’s period could be a sign of hyperthyroidism

More information on Thyroid and Irregular Periods

Women who experience irregular periods such as those described above who are not beginning the menopause transition should speak to their doctor about the possibility of a thyroid condition. Women who believe their irregular periods are a result of menopause, can explore the following treatment options for irregular periods:

• Lifestyle changes
• Alternative medicines
• Prescription drugs

We recommend that women do a little research and talk to a trusted physician before making an important decision regarding healthcare.

Other Related Articles:
Menstrual Disorders
Menstrual Disorder and Acupuncture
Menstrual Cycle Problems and Regulation
Long Menstrual Cycles
Irregular periods for years