The impact of the thyroid and its disease on female reproductive function


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Abstract

Thyroid disease is more common in women of reproductive age. The paper reviews modern literature on the impact of autoimmune thyroiditis, hypo- and hyperfunction of the thyroid, as well as its structural changes on the female reproductive system. Autoimmune aggression against thyroid cells is frequently associated with reproductive system diseases and is the most common cause of primary hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is an easily identifiable risk factor for infertility and pregnancy complications, which responds well to drug therapy. Fetal exposure to the elevated levels of maternal thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor antibodies can stimulate the fetal thyroid and also lead to the development of a number of diseases at a later period. During pregnancy, the thyroid undergoes structural and functional changes. The management tactics depends on the presence of dysfunction and on the benign/malignant nature of the disease.

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About the authors

Antonina A. Smetnik

National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov Ministry of Health of Russia

Email: a_smetnik@oparina4.ru
PhD, senior research scientist, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology

Anna I. Sazonova

National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V.I. Kulakov Ministry of Health of Russia

Email: anyta_sazonova@mail.ru
PhD, endocrinologist of the Therapeutical Department

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