Women + Thyroid Health

Our thyroid function controls many different systems in our body. Shockingly, 1 in 8 women will develop thyroid disease. Around 15 million women have a thyroid disease and are unaware. It is very underdiagnosed. The most common is Hashimoto’s Disease which causes hypothyroidism which means the thyroid is underactive and not producing enough thyroid hormones.

There are many reasons this is so predominant in our country. There are things you can look at now to help try and avoid a future thyroid issue.

• Environmental toxins which are found in our air, water and food.

• Switching common household cleaners to non-toxic options.

• Eat a clean diet. This does not mean that you have eat an entirely organic diet but there are certain foods that are more chemically treated than others. See the ‘dirty dozen’ here.

• Take a look at the products you are putting on your skin. The products should be natural and as chemical free as possible.

• Watch your stress levels. High stress affects our bodies in many ways including our thyroid.

When is it time to investigate if you may have thyroid disease? These are the most common symptoms:

• Extreme tiredness

• Increased sensitivity to cold

• Constipation

• Dry skin

• Unexplained weight gain

• Depression or anxiety

• Muscle weakness or achiness

• Elevated cholesterol

• Thinning hair

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is worth getting your thyroid checked by your provider. The tests to ask for are TSH, Reverse T3 and Free T4. If you do have an imbalance, your provider will speak with you about Thyroid Replacement Therapy to get those levels back on track!

Our Certified Nurse Midwives at Health Foundations Birth Center can help you navigate this! Give us a call to make an appointment at 651-895-2520.