My TSH is very low or suppressed, could your period have anything to do with it?!
Question:
My TSH is very low or suppressed, could your period have anything to do with it? I just had bloodwork. Help?
I had routine bloodwork done recently and it came back that my TSH (thyroid stimulation hormone) was suppressed. I was just about to start my period, so I am wondering if the test results could show that the TSH was supressed due to that fact? All the other parts of my bloodwork came back excellent. I am concerned. I will be going to a doctor, but can't get in for months. Just thought I would ask. Thanks!
Answers:
Hi there!
A low level of TSH is unlikely to be related to the menstrual cycle. This is because menstrual cycle is regulated by estrogen and progestrone which are not really associated with the thyroid hormone. TSH is produced in the brain and it is responsible for stimulating the production of thyroxine (T4).
However, some prescription medicines, that contain iodine could potentially impact on the lab results.
It is quite difficult to tell what condition you have based on TSH level on its own. T4 (thyroxine) level together with serum TSH and doctor's examination on your thyroid (whether it is enlarged or not) are better way diagnose the condition. The diagnosis is then further confirmed with symptoms that you may experience. Symptoms of hyperthyrodism includes: fast heart beat, fatigue, weight loss and tremor.
A low TSH level with normal/elevated T4 (free thyroxine) generally indicates hyperthyrodism. This is because when there is so much T4 circulating in the blood, the brain stops producing TSH in attempt to trying to normalise the T4 level. That's why the TSH level is suppressed.
Hope that helps!