When planning a pregnancy, thyroid health is worth understanding.

Your thyroid produces hormones that help regulate metabolism and support normal reproductive function. An underactive or overactive thyroid can affect menstrual cycles and ovulation.

What is TSH?
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by the pituitary gland. It signals your thyroid to make thyroid hormones.

• High TSH may suggest an underactive thyroid.
• Low TSH may suggest an overactive thyroid.
• Free T4 testing can help clarify the results.

One TSH result does not tell the whole story. Results should be interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history, medications and pregnancy status. A mildly abnormal result does not automatically mean infertility or a need for medication.

If you have known thyroid disease, discuss your care with your healthcare provider before trying to conceive. Thyroid hormone needs can change during pregnancy, making timely testing and follow-up important.