Thyroidism: What to Know About Common Thyroid Disorders?

Home > Blog > Thyroidism: What to Know About Common Thyroid Disorders?

Thyroidism: What to Know About Common Thyroid Disorders?

Thyroidism: What to Know About Common Thyroid Disorders?

By SaimaJaved

|  January 16, 2026

Hello Reader!

Welcome to the blog page of Dr. Saima Javed, one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata.

The thyroid gland, though small in size, plays a very powerful role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy levels, menstrual cycles, fertility, weight, heart function, and overall hormonal balance. Located in the front of the neck, this butterfly-shaped gland produces hormones that control how your body uses energy. When the thyroid does not function properly, it can lead to common thyroid disorders that affect millions of people, especially women.

As the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I, Dr. Saima Javed, frequently encounter women who experience menstrual irregularities, infertility, weight fluctuations, fatigue, and mood changes due to underlying thyroid issues. Understanding these common thyroid disorders is crucial for early diagnosis and proper treatment.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

What is Thyroidism?

Thyroidism refers to any condition that affects the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. It mainly involves either underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones. These imbalances can disrupt various bodily functions, leading to multiple health complications if left untreated.

The two most common thyroid disorders are:

  1. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
  2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

Hypothyroidism – The Most Common Thyroid Disorder in Women

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This is one of the most common thyroid disorders affecting women, especially in reproductive age.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Weight gain despite a normal diet
  • Cold intolerance
  • Dry skin and hair loss
  • Depression or mood swings
  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • Difficulty conceiving
  • Slow heart rate

As the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I often see patients with infertility or repeated miscarriages where undiagnosed hypothyroidism is a major contributing factor.

Causes of Hypothyroidism:

  • Autoimmune disease (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis)
  • Iodine deficiency
  • Thyroid surgery
  • Certain medications
  • Postpartum thyroiditis
best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

Hyperthyroidism – When Thyroid Becomes Overactive

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones. Though less common than hypothyroidism, it is still among the common thyroid disorders that require medical attention.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Excessive sweating
  • Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Heat intolerance
  • Tremors
  • Irregular or absent periods

Many women with hyperthyroidism struggle with menstrual disturbances and fertility problems, which is why timely consultation with the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata is essential.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:

  • Graves’ disease
  • Thyroid nodules
  • Excessive iodine intake
  • Thyroid inflammation

Thyroid Disorders and Women’s Health

Thyroid hormones play a vital role in:

  • Puberty development
  • Regular menstrual cycles
  • Ovulation
  • Pregnancy maintenance
  • Postpartum recovery

Untreated common thyroid disorders can lead to infertility, pregnancy complications, miscarriage, premature birth, and postpartum depression. Therefore, routine thyroid screening is highly recommended for women planning pregnancy or experiencing menstrual issues.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders

To detect common thyroid disorders, doctors usually recommend:

  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test
  • T3 and T4 hormone tests
  • Thyroid antibody tests
  • Ultrasound of the thyroid gland

Early detection enables better treatment outcomes and an improved quality of life.

Treatment Options

For Hypothyroidism:

  • Daily thyroid hormone replacement medication
  • Regular blood tests
  • Dietary adjustments

For Hyperthyroidism:

  • Anti-thyroid medications
  • Radioactive iodine therapy
  • Surgery (in severe cases)

With proper treatment and guidance from the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, most thyroid conditions can be effectively managed.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

Symptoms Women Shouldn’t Ignore: Fatigue, Cycles, and Fertility

As the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I frequently encounter women dismissing subtle signs of common thyroid disorders as mere stress or aging. Fatigue, menstrual chaos, and fertility hurdles often signal thyroid imbalance, especially hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Recognizing these early can prevent escalation—here’s what women need to know.

Fatigue: The Persistent Energy Drain

Chronic tiredness tops the list of overlooked symptoms in common thyroid disorders. In hypothyroidism, low thyroid hormones slow metabolism, leaving women exhausted despite ample sleep. This fatigue feels bone-deep, worsening with cold sensitivity, muscle weakness, and brain fog.

Hyperthyroidism flips the script with jittery fatigue from constant metabolic overdrive, often paired with insomnia and anxiety. As the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I advise tracking if rest doesn’t revive you—thyroid screening is essential.

Menstrual Cycles: Chaos from Hormonal Havoc

Common thyroid disorders disrupt cycles profoundly, mimicking PCOS or perimenopause. Hypothyroidism triggers heavy, prolonged periods (menorrhagia) or infrequent ones (oligomenorrhea) due to impaired ovulation. Women may face absent periods (amenorrhea), swelling from fluid retention, or erratic bleeding.

Hyperthyroidism lightens flows or skips them entirely, heightening miscarriage risk. Studies link elevated TSH to these irregularities, underscoring thyroid’s role in reproductive hormones. Don’t ignore cycle shifts—consult the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata promptly.

Fertility Challenges: Thyroid’s Hidden Sabotage

Untreated common thyroid disorders sabotage conception in multiple ways. Hypothyroidism hampers ovulation, elevates prolactin, and raises miscarriage odds by 2-3 times. Even subclinical cases double the infertility risk, affecting egg quality and implantation.

Hyperthyroidism accelerates hormone swings, complicating early pregnancy with preterm birth threats. As the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I screen all fertility patients for thyroid function—treatment often restores fertility within months.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

Interconnected Symptoms: A Call to Action

These signs rarely appear alone in common thyroid disorders. Fatigue amplifies cycle woes, while both fuel fertility struggles, creating a vicious cycle. Women in high-stress Kolkata environments face amplified risks from pollution and iodine gaps.

Action Steps:

  • Log symptoms daily.
  • Request TSH, T4, and antibody tests.
  • Pair with a gynecological evaluation.

Early intervention transforms lives. Schedule with Dr. Saima Javed, the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, today.

Also Read: Obesity and Infertility: The Impact on the Outcomes of IVF

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

How does thyroid dysfunction affect menstrual cycles and fertility?

Thyroid dysfunction significantly disrupts menstrual cycles and fertility by altering hormone balance and reproductive processes. Hypothyroidism often leads to irregular, heavy periods or anovulation, while hyperthyroidism causes lighter or absent cycles, both impairing conception.​

Effects on Menstrual Cycles

Hypothyroidism slows ovarian function, resulting in oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods), menorrhagia (heavy bleeding), or amenorrhea (no periods) due to elevated prolactin and disrupted ovulation. Hyperthyroidism shortens cycles or induces oligomenorrhea by accelerating metabolism and interfering with estrogen-progesterone balance. These changes stem from thyroid hormones’ influence on FSH, LH, and gonadotropins, affecting over half of hypothyroid women.​

Impact on Fertility

Untreated hypothyroidism hampers follicular development and implantation, doubling infertility risk and elevating miscarriage rates by 2-3 times through poor egg quality. Hyperthyroidism disrupts ovulation and raises preterm birth risks, with autoimmune forms like Hashimoto’s worsening outcomes via inflammation. Even subclinical dysfunction delays conception, but levothyroxine often restores fertility within months.​

Key Mechanisms and Risks

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and sex steroid production; imbalances elevate SHBG, suppressing ovulation. Women face higher risks during reproductive years, with pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes in autoimmune cases. Routine TSH screening is vital for those with cycle irregularities.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

Lifestyle changes that improve fatigue and menstrual health

Lifestyle changes can significantly alleviate fatigue and support menstrual health, especially in thyroid-related issues, by boosting metabolism, reducing inflammation, and balancing hormones. Regular moderate exercise, stress reduction, and nutrient-focused diets prove most effective.​

Exercise for Energy and Cycle Regulation

Incorporate 30 minutes of daily aerobic activity like walking, swimming, or cycling to combat thyroid-induced fatigue and enhance metabolism. Strength training and yoga build muscle, reduce weight gain, and stabilize menstrual cycles by lowering cortisol. Avoid overexertion, as it may worsen hyperthyroid symptoms; aim for consistency to improve hormonal balance over time.​

Stress Management Techniques

Chronic stress elevates cortisol, disrupting thyroid function and exacerbating fatigue or irregular periods. Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing for 15-20 minutes daily to lower cortisol and promote regular ovulation. Hobbies and mindfulness also aid menstrual regularity by supporting adrenal-thyroid harmony.​

Sleep and Hydration Priorities

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly to optimize thyroid hormone production and reduce daytime fatigue. Maintain hydration with 8-10 glasses of water or herbal teas (ginger, peppermint) to aid detoxification and ease bloating tied to cycle issues.​

Dietary Adjustments for Symptom Relief

Focus on anti-inflammatory foods, such as iodine-rich seafood, selenium-packed Brazil nuts/eggs, zinc from legumes, and fiber from greens/whole grains, to help curb fatigue and normalize periods  Limit raw cruciferous veggies, soy, and sugar, which interfere with hormone conversion. A gluten-free or low-glycemic approach helps many with hypothyroidism-related menstrual woes.​

Tracking and Professional Guidance

Monitor symptoms with a journal and combine changes with TSH monitoring. These habits amplify medication effects but consult a specialist for personalized plans, as individual needs vary.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

Diet changes to reduce fatigue and regulate periods

Diet changes targeting nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods effectively reduce fatigue and regulate periods in thyroid dysfunction by supporting hormone synthesis and metabolism. Prioritize selenium, zinc, iodine, and omega-3s while avoiding goitrogens and processed sugars.​

Nutrient-Rich Foods to Combat Fatigue

Incorporate selenium sources like Brazil nuts (2-3 daily) and tuna to boost T4-to-T3 conversion, easing hypothyroid fatigue. Zinc from pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and lean meats aids energy production; aim for 8-11 mg daily. Iodine, via iodized salt or yogurt, prevents deficiency-related slowdowns.

Anti-Inflammatory Choices for Cycle Balance

Omega-3s from fatty fish (salmon, mackerel twice weekly) or flaxseeds reduce inflammation, stabilizing estrogen and progesterone for regular periods. Antioxidants in berries, turmeric, and green tea curb oxidative stress linked to irregularities.​

Fiber and Protein for Hormonal Stability

High-fiber veggies (spinach, broccoli—cooked to minimize goitrogens), whole grains, and lean proteins (eggs, chicken) regulate blood sugar, reducing PMS and fatigue spikes. A balanced plate with 25-30g fiber daily supports ovulation.​

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Cut processed sugars and refined carbs that worsen insulin resistance and thyroid fatigue. Limit raw cruciferous veggies (cabbage, kale) and soy, as they inhibit iodine uptake; gluten may trigger autoimmunity in sensitive cases.​

Sample Daily Meal Plan

MealFoods
BreakfastOatmeal with berries, nuts, yogurt ​
LunchGrilled fish salad with greens, olive oil
SnackApple with almond butter
DinnerLentil soup, quinoa, steamed veggies
EveningHerbal tea with ginger

Consistency yields results in 4-6 weeks; pair with medical advice for optimal outcomes.

When to Consult the Best Lady Gynecologist in Kolkata

Persistent fatigue, irregular menstrual cycles, or unexplained fertility challenges often signal underlying common thyroid disorders that demand expert attention. Consult Dr. Saima Javed, the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, if symptoms like heavy bleeding, amenorrhea, or conception delays last over three months despite lifestyle tweaks. As the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, she integrates thyroid screening with gynecological care for swift diagnosis via TSH tests and tailored treatments, preventing complications like infertility or pregnancy loss. Early visits ensure hormonal harmony—book now for personalized wellness.

best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, Common Thyroid Disorders

FAQ

1️⃣ What is thyroid disease?

Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much or too little hormone, affecting metabolism, energy, and overall body functions.

2️⃣ What are the most common thyroid disorders?

The most common disorders are hypothyroidism (low thyroid), hyperthyroidism (high thyroid), goiter, thyroid nodules, and Hashimoto’s disease.

3️⃣ What are the symptoms of thyroid problems?

Common symptoms include fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, irregular heartbeat, mood swings, and changes in menstrual cycle.

4️⃣ How is thyroid disorder diagnosed?

It is diagnosed through blood tests like TSH, T3, and T4 levels, along with an ultrasound if needed.

5️⃣ Can thyroid problems be treated?

Yes. Most thyroid disorders are treatable with medicines, and in some cases, surgery or radioactive therapy may be required.

Final Words

Thyroid disorders are among the most common thyroid disorders affecting women today. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and proper treatment can prevent serious complications. If you experience symptoms related to a thyroid imbalance, consult a specialist promptly.

I, Dr. Saima Javed, the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, encourage all women to take their thyroid health seriously and seek medical advice when needed.

Need to see a gynaecologist?

We’ve made it simple for you to schedule an appointment right
away via Whatsapp.