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Question - Thyroid Levels, Infertility, & Miscarriage:
"Help. During a donor egg cycle, my TSH went up from 3 to almost 11. I got a very low positive beta (hCG, pregnancy test) which went down over the next week. Later I went to an endocrinlogist who specializes in thyroid and he told me that could have been the cause of my miscarriage.
My reproductive endocrinologist contends that as long as my free t4 levels were within normal range, my thyroid levels were okay and could not have caused a miscarriage. The only reason he even tested me was because after taking estrogen for two weeks, I felt exhausted and my skin became dry and itchy and all my hypothyroid symptoms came back. I couldn't even get myself warm at night. What do you think about thyroid levels and infertility and miscarriage?"
Answer:
First, it's important to know that the "normal" range for TSH is not necessarily the best gauge to use for women who are having difficulty conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy. Generally, the lower, the better, and I mean so low that a lot of women experience uncomfortable hypothyroid effects.
I'd say, generally, that there is a lot of support in patient forums for the impact of controlling one's thyroid disease on both conception and miscarriage. Mind you, I'm referring to support by patients who feel that controlling their thyroid either worked for them or who are hopeful that it will.
Also, thyroid disease expert and author, Mary Shomon, is personally and professionally supportive of the stance that thyroid levels have a definite impact on conception and pregnancy.
From what I've read, I, too, have a tendency to believe in this impact.
That said, it would be impossible for me to comment specifically on your medical case. However, it sounds like you may need to find a way to either work with both of your endo's or have them consult each other for your benefit. Some docs are better than others on the collaboration angle. It can be very disconcerting to have specialists quibble on your behalf! If you need to seek a third opinion, do so, but not before letting both of your endo's know that you are planning on doing so.
© Tracy Morris
