How to Optimize | Thyroid Health

Thyroid hormones play a big role in getting pregnant + having a healthy pregnancy.

Like many of our hormones, thyroid levels are definitely a Goldilocks situation, we want levels to be just right. 

The most common imbalance I see for women in their childbearing years is low thyroid hormone. 

How can you know if your thyroid is a factor in your fertility journey?

Symptoms of thyroid imbalance can be varied (which makes knowing if it’s an issue hard to determine on one’s own). 

Common symptoms of low thyroid hormone include: 

  • Dry skin or hair 

  • Hair loss, including eyebrow hair 

  • Constipation 

  • Depression 

  • Fatigue (a pretty common one)

  • Weight gain or stubborn weight loss 

  • Irregular periods 

How does low thyroid function impact fertility?

  • Increased risk of miscarriage (especially in the first trimester)

  • Reproductive hormone imbalance 

  • Adrenal issues  

  • Low hormone production 

  • Can poorly impact egg development 

  • Can negatively impact fetal development 

To make things more confusing .. 

– thyroid hormone levels can be normal on testing but can still be an issue if there are thyroid antibodies present. 

What do thyroid antibodies mean? 

Having thyroid antibodies (namely, thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies) that are elevated can indicate an autoimmune condition, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. It’s possible for antibodies to be elevated + thyroid hormone levels to be normal. This can still have implications for a healthy pregnancy and cause possible complications both getting pregnant and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. 

What to do if you suspect thyroid may be impacting your fertility journey? 

  • Ask your provider for comprehensive testing to assess what your levels are 

→ get access to the Functional Fertility Checklist including Foundational Lab Testing guide 

  • Assess root cause of thyroid imbalances (this commonly means addressing inflammation, gut health, adrenal issues, immune imbalances + mineral imbalances)  

  • Optimize mineral + nutrient levels 

  • Eat foods rich in minerals like nuts, seeds, dark leafy greens, eggs, berries, avocados + fermented foods 

  • Clean up beauty / body / home care products to live a more low-toxicity lifestyle 

  • Consider nutrients that are well studied in supporting thyroid health 

    • Selenium

    • Inositol

    • Magnesium 

    • Iodine 

    • B vitamins 

    • Vitamin A 

    • Copper 

    • Zinc 

    • Probiotics

    • Turmeric 

→ get access to my thyroid health protocol @ 15% off here 

  • Ensure you’re getting enough, high quality sleep 

  • Moderate stress with calming practices like mindful breathing, journaling, moderate exercise, meditation or other activities that bring you joy 

  • Speak your truths. Are there suppressed emotions or feelings you haven’t been able to let out? Tending to the throat chakra + using your voice can be a supportive way to heal thyroid imbalances. 

The takeaway? 

Making sure thyroid function is stable should be part of a thorough preconception plan. There are many, highly effective ways to support thyroid health + finding the right approach for your body is key! 

If you’re looking for a comprehensive and functional approach to your hormones + fertility, you’re in the right place.

Uncovering the root cause of hormone imbalances + optimizing fertility health is the core of my work. If you’re ready for clarity about how best to balance your hormones and prepare for a pregnancy, learn more about my approach + highly successful strategy.

Kelsey Stangfertility, pregnancy, health and wellness, women's health, irregular cycles, nutrition, thyroid, low thyroid, hormones, healthy pregnancy