Thyroid conditions in women
This butterfly-shaped gland in your neck sets the pace of your metabolism. Autoimmune disease is the most common cause of thyroid problems.
Conditions that affect your thyroid 6
Autoimmune and chronic conditions that can involve your thyroid. Each guide covers early signs, labs to ask about, and when to see a doctor.
Graves' disease
AutoimmuneThe most common cause of an overactive thyroid. Antibodies switch the thyroid 'on' so it makes too much hormone.
Hashimoto's thyroiditis
AutoimmuneThe most common cause of an underactive thyroid in the US. The immune system slowly damages the thyroid, so it makes less hormone over time.
Fertility challenges
ChronicInfertility means not getting pregnant after 12 months of trying, or after 6 months if you're 35 or older. Many causes are treatable, and both partners should be evaluated.
Weight management
ChronicBody weight is shaped by genes, hormones, sleep, stress, medicines, and health conditions, not willpower alone. Care here focuses on health and on finding medical causes of weight change, at any body size.
Anxiety
ChronicWorry, fear, or physical tension that's out of proportion to the situation and gets in the way of daily life. Physical causes such as thyroid or hormone changes can drive or worsen it.
Depression
ChronicA persistent low mood or loss of interest that lasts at least 2 weeks and affects how you think, feel, and function. It's a medical condition, not a weakness, and it's treatable.
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Signs worth getting checked
- Fatigue together with feeling cold
- A racing heart, shakiness, or heat intolerance
- Hair thinning or changes in your periods
- Swelling or a lump in the neck
Ingredients that affect your thyroid
Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other supplements commonly used for the thyroid. Each one links to its full guide.
About your thyroid
What it does
Thyroid hormones influence energy, body temperature, heart rate, digestion, mood, hair and skin, and menstrual cycles. The thyroid is the organ most often affected by autoimmune disease.
Common issues
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- Thyroid nodules, which are usually benign
- Thyroid inflammation after pregnancy (postpartum thyroiditis)
- Too little or too much iodine
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.