Study of thyroid profile and prolactin levels in female infertility patients: An institutional analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Thyroid as an endocrine organ along with prolactin hormone plays a significant role in the fecundity of the couple. Disorders in these hormones may cause menstrual abnormalities and anovulation, leading to infertility. Its dysfunction is not uncommon and is often reversible or preventable with early detection and treatment. This study was undertaken to study the occurrence of thyroid hormone dysfunction and hyperprolactinemia in infertile women. Materials and Methods: In this study, we studied the thyroid profile and prolactin levels in 100 infertile women who visited the obstetrics and gynecology department or in vitro fertilization center of a tertiary care hospital. The frequency of hypo- and hyperthyroidism along with hyperprolactinemia was studied, and the association between thyroid dysfunction and levels of serum prolactin was analyzed. Results: The majority of the infertile women were euthyroid. Thyroid dysfunction was noted in 27% of infertile women, with 17% showing hyperthyroidism and 10% showing hypothyroidism. Hyperprolactinemia was observed in 9% of infertile females. Hypothyroidism was found to be positively associated with hyperprolactinemia. Conclusion: Blood examination for thyroid hormone and prolactin should be kept in consideration as important routine workup in female infertility patients so that patients can be appropriately managed.

Keywords

• hyperprolactinemia
• infertility
• thyroid profile