Hypothyroidism Screening For Women: How Often Should You Do It And Why

NDTV

10 hours ago

In India, thyroid problems are far more common than many realise, and women are disproportionately affected. According to the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, an estimated 42 million Indians suffer from thyroid diseases, with hypothyroidism being the most prevalent. Among these, women face a 10-fold higher risk than men, especially during their reproductive years, pregnancy, and post-menopause. The challenge with hypothyroidism is that it can often remain "silent." Fatigue, weight gain, hair fall, or mood swings are easily attributed to lifestyle stress, ageing, or even mental health struggles, meaning many women delay medical help. But untreated hypothyroidism can lead to serious consequences ranging from infertility and pregnancy complications to heart disease and depression.
That's why regular thyroid screening is critical for women. Knowing when to get tested, how frequently, and what symptoms to watch out for can make all the difference. With proper diagnosis and timely treatment, hypothyroidism is highly manageable and does not need to hold women back from leading healthy, fulfilling lives.
Here's a closer look at what hypothyroidism screening involves, why it is essential for women in India, and what questions you should be asking your doctor at your next check-up.
What Is Hypothyroidism Screening?
Hypothyroidism screening involves simple blood tests that measure how well the thyroid gland is functioning. The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, produces hormones (T3, T4) that regulate metabolism, growth, and energy.
The most common test is the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test, often paired with free T4 levels for confirmation. Elevated TSH with low T4 usually signals hypothyroidism. Screening may also include thyroid antibody tests to check for autoimmune thyroid disease, which is especially relevant in women.
Since the tests are inexpensive, widely available, and minimally invasive, they offer a quick way to catch problems early before they cause long-term damage.
Why Is Screening Essential For Indian Women?
Women in India face a significantly higher burden of thyroid disorders. Studies suggest that hypothyroidism affects nearly 1 in 10 Indian adults, with women of childbearing age most vulnerable. The risk increases further during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Pregnancy complications: Untreated hypothyroidism is linked to miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental issues in babies.
Infertility concerns: Thyroid imbalance can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Heart and bone health: Long-term untreated hypothyroidism raises cholesterol and risk of heart disease, while also contributing to bone weakness.
Mental health impact: Persistent fatigue, brain fog, and mood swings are common but often overlooked symptoms.
Given that women juggle multiple roles and may ignore vague symptoms, routine screening can serve as a crucial safety net.
When Should Women Get Screened?
Experts recommend thyroid checks at different life stages, particularly when risk factors are high.
Women over 35: The American Thyroid Association suggests screening every 5 years, but in India, where prevalence is higher, more frequent checks may be advisable.
During pregnancy: Screening is strongly recommended at the first prenatal visit, especially for those with a family history of thyroid disease.
Postpartum: New mothers are at risk of postpartum thyroiditis, making follow-up checks important.
Family history: Women with autoimmune diseases or family thyroid history should be screened earlier and more regularly.
Persistent symptoms: Any woman experiencing ongoing fatigue, weight fluctuations, or menstrual irregularities should get tested, regardless of age.
In short, while there isn't a universal one-size-fits-all guideline, Indian women (particularly above 30) should consider annual or biennial screening, depending on their health history.
Hypothyroidism Symptoms To Keep In Mind
Hypothyroidism symptoms can be subtle, but recognising them early can prompt timely screening. Watch out for:
Unexplained fatigue and sluggishness
Weight gain despite no change in diet or activity
Dry skin and hair thinning
Feeling unusually cold
Irregular or heavy menstrual cycles
Puffy face, swelling in the neck (goitre)
Depression, irritability, or brain fog
Since these signs overlap with stress and ageing, many women dismiss them. If symptoms persist for weeks or months, testing becomes crucial.
What To Ask Your Doctor
Being proactive at check-ups can help women manage thyroid health effectively. Here are some key questions to bring up:
Should I get my thyroid checked based on my age and symptoms?
Do I need only TSH or a complete thyroid panel?
How often should I repeat these tests?
If I am planning pregnancy, should I check beforehand?
What lifestyle changes can support thyroid health?
Do I need medication if my results are borderline?
Such conversations ensure personalised care, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
India's Push For Thyroid Awareness
Over the past decade, India has seen greater emphasis on thyroid awareness, with initiatives by the Indian Thyroid Society and campaigns like Thyroid Awareness Month. However, awareness remains uneven, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
Hypothyroidism may be common, but it doesn't have to be life-limiting. For women in India, regular screening is one of the most effective tools to prevent long-term complications-from heart problems to fertility issues. If you're over 30, planning pregnancy, or experiencing persistent symptoms, it may be time to ask your doctor about a thyroid test.
Remember: early detection, timely treatment, and consistent follow-up can help women stay healthier, more energised, and in control of their well-being.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.