Have your ever wondered if your thyroid influences your sexual dysfunction? The answer is yes! Your thyroid helps regulate your sex drive. The hormones produced by the small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck send powerful signals that help control almost every organ in your body. From mood and anxiety/depression to sleep and even bloating, your thyroid is in the mix of it all, so it makes sense that your thyroid is associated with sexual function and pleasure, too.
Studies show that both hypothyroidism- low levels of thyroid hormones and hyperthyroidism- high levels of thyroid hormones have been linked to symptoms like erectile dysfunction in men and painful sex, sexual dissatisfaction, and infertility in women. The good news is that studies have shown that symptoms can be resolved by achieving optimal thyroid function.
Thyroid Dysfunction & Sexual Health
Hypothyroid women typically show a decrease in both estrogen and testosterone. Low estrogen may correspond to decreased lubrication and painful sex, while low testosterone may lower sexual desire and sexual satisfaction. In men, thyroid function is linked to erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, and/or low sexual desire.
Other Possible Signs of Thyroid Dysfunction
Hypo-thyroid
- Fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Thinning hair
- Depression
Hyper-thyroid
- Weight loss
- Heat intolerance
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
- Bowel changes
- Nervousness/Irritability
- Fatigue
Testing and Diagnoses
Testing for thyroid dysfunction is relatively simple. A quick blood draw at your doctor’s office will enable your doctor to evaluate your thyroid function and specifically measure your TSH, T4, T3, and Free T4 levels. After the labs come back, your doctor will review the information with you, and together, you will decide if further testing or treatment is appropriate.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sue Kafali today if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.
About Dr. Sue Kafali
Dr. Sue Kafali is a board-certified Cosmetic Gynecologist and among the best labiaplasty and vaginal rejuvenation experts. She is a top expert in women’s reproductive health and with accreditation in minimally invasive robotic surgery, making her one of the top cosmetic gynecology surgeons in Chicago, Illinois and the country. FemSculpt Cosmetic Gynecology is the first practice dedicated exclusively to feminine rejuvenation. Our doctors are experts in female anatomy and vaginal rejuvenation treatments. Our procedures can help address the aesthetic and functional issues to restore a woman’s intimate well-being.
For a complimentary consultation with Dr. Sue Kafali, contact our office today.
Our offices are located in Downtown Chicago 310 W. Superior St, Chicago, Illinois 60654 & 2350 Ravine Way, Suite 400 Glenview, IL 60025