Violation of reproductive function in females with autoimmune thyroiditis

Abstract

In the modern conditions of unfavourable environmental situation in most cities, the problem of reproductive disorders (infertility and miscarriage) is becoming increasingly important. Oft en this can occur due to diseases of the endocrine system, in particular, due to autoimmune damage to the thyroid gland. Th e most modern method of combating infertility today is the programme of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), although its eff ectiveness may decrease due to the presence of autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Research data on the eff ectiveness of ART in females with AIT are extremely contradictory. However, most evidence suggests that superovulation induction in ART programmes elevates the risk of thyroid dysfunction in women with AIT. Patients with AIT are always at risk of hypothyroidism development in early pregnancy. Th erewith only L-thyroxine treatment is presently provided for women with infertility or miscarriage in combination with AIT who decide to use the in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) programme, which does not always show high effi cacy. Further studies are required to assess the role of AIT in reproductive disorders, as well as to develop alternative methods for AIT correction, including the condition of euthyroidism.